Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Heads Towards the Island Nation
Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.
The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.
Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.
This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.
Category Five Hurricane Risk
A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.
While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.
Critical Preparations
With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".
"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.
The country's head of government the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.
"However the best way to address worry and any unease and concern is to be prepared."
Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.
Regional Impact
Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.
Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.
Projected Course
The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.
By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three storm.
Climate Background
While it is challenging to associate individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more intense.
Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.
Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.