đź”— Share this article Hurricane Melissa Intensifies While Heads Toward the Island Nation The hurricane has struck neighboring nations Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers towards Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides. The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts. Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised. The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November. Most Intense Storm Risk A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph. Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island. Immediate Preparations With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion". "A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," counseled weather authorities. Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified. "Yet the most effective method to handle worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready." Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities. Wider Impact Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period. Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities. Expected Path This weather system is predicted to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean. By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three cyclone. Environmental Context Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe. Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes. Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.