🔗 Share this article

Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected long before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the air, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.