🔗 Share this article Tropical Storm the storm Grows Stronger As It Moves Towards the Island Nation This powerful storm has already affected nearby countries Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls. The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists. Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as Melissa produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged. Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month. Most Intense Cyclone Danger A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour. Although this storm is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country. Urgent Preparations With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion". "A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials. Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified. "However the optimal approach to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared." Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities. Regional Consequences Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week. Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services. Projected Trajectory This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean. By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone. Weather Context While it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme. Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the creation of hurricanes. Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.