🔗 Share this article Tropical Storm the storm Grows Stronger While Moves Toward the Island Nation The hurricane has struck neighboring nations Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls. The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities. Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged. This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn. Highest-Level Cyclone Danger A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h. While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island. Immediate Safety Steps With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion". "An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged meteorological officials. Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural. "However the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared." Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials. Broader Impact Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period. Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities. Projected Course The hurricane is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean. By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone. Weather Background While it is hard to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme. Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the air, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones. Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.