🔗 Share this article Tropical Storm the storm Gains Power As It Moves Towards the Island Nation This powerful storm has already affected Haiti and the Dominican Republic Hurricane the storm is projected to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides. The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities. Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged. Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn. Most Intense Cyclone Threat A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour. Although Melissa is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation. Immediate Preparations With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion". "Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised weather authorities. Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified. "However the best way to manage nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready." Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials. Regional Consequences Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week. Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities. Future Path This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean. By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 storm. Weather Context Although it is hard to associate individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe. Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones. Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.