Cyclone Melissa Intensifies As It Barrels Toward Jamaica

Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon category five storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Context

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to climate change, 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 hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.