🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to become a rare Category 5 cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.