Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a category five storm as it heads toward Jamaica, posing risks of severe flash flooding and landslides. The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph (195 km/h) as of 06:00 GMT, is currently moving north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The NHC has issued warnings about potential power outages and infrastructure damage, as Melissa could bring up to 30 inches (76 cm) of rain and sea-level surges up to 13 feet (4 meters). Residents are advised to seek shelter immediately.
Melissa is the 13th hurricane of the current Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts until November. Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four before reaching Jamaica, the NHC stated that the overall impacts will remain significant, with the storm still likely to be at least category four intensity upon landfall.
Tropical storm-strength winds and rainfall are anticipated in central Jamaica, including the capital, Kingston, prompting the NHC to advise that preparations be completed urgently. The meteorological agency has warned of a prolonged period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall that could lead to catastrophic flash flooding and numerous landslides.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness acknowledged the concerns of residents and emphasized the importance of being prepared. Residents have been encouraged to secure their homes and stock up on essential supplies.
Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti, including the capital Port-au-Prince, as well as the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where similar impacts from Melissa are expected by mid-next week. The hurricane has already caused landslides in Haiti, resulting in two fatalities, as reported by the nation’s Civil Protection agency.
After passing over Cuba, Melissa is anticipated to weaken to a category three storm. While individual weather events cannot be directly linked to climate change, scientists suggest that changing climate conditions make severe weather events more frequent. Warmer ocean temperatures can contribute to heightened hurricane formation, as noted by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ahead of this year’s hurricane season.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgkqvxkzx0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss