🔗 Share this article Tropical Storm the storm Intensifies As It Moves Towards Jamaica The hurricane has impacted nearby countries Cyclone Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides. The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists. Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told. Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn. Most Intense Storm Danger A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph. Even though the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island. Critical Preparations With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated". "An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," advised climate experts. Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified. "But the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready." Residents are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials. Wider Effects Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period. Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities. Future Trajectory Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic. By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three cyclone. Climate Context While it is hard to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more severe. Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the creation of hurricanes. Prior to the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.