Hurricane Melissa Gains Power As It Moves Toward the Island Nation

Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Course

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.