Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Heads Towards Jamaica

Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to manage worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.