Cyclone the storm Grows Stronger While Heads Toward the Island Nation

Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it veers toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.