Tropical Storm the storm Intensifies As It Heads Towards Jamaica

Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Connection

While it is difficult to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.