🔗 Share this article Cyclone Melissa Intensifies As It Heads Towards Jamaica The hurricane has impacted nearby countries Hurricane Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides. The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by weather experts. Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised. This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn. Most Intense Hurricane Threat A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour. Even though Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation. Urgent Readiness Measures With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly". "A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities. The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified. "However the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready." Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies. Regional Effects Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period. Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services. Future Trajectory Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean. By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three hurricane. Climate Connection While it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme. Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of hurricanes. Prior to the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.