Hurricane the storm Gains Power As It Moves Towards Jamaica
Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.
The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.
Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.
The cyclone is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.
Most Intense Storm Risk
A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.
Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.
Immediate Readiness Measures
With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".
"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.
"But the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."
Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.
Broader Consequences
Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.
Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.
Expected Path
The hurricane is predicted to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.
By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three cyclone.
Weather Connection
Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.
Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.
Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.