🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

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

Category Five Hurricane Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any nervousness and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.