Hurricane Melissa is forecast to become a rare category five storm as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.
The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph (195 km/h) as of 06:00 GMT, is currently heading north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, according to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).
The NHC warns of power outages and substantial damage to infrastructure, with Melissa expected to deliver up to 30 inches (76cm) of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft (4m) above ground. Residents have been urged to seek shelter immediately.
Melissa marks the 13th hurricane of the current Atlantic season, which is usually active until November.
A category five hurricane is the strongest classification, characterized by winds of at least 157 mph. While Melissa may weaken to category four before reaching Jamaica, the NHC states there will be "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, indicating it will still maintain significant intensity.
Expectations for tropical storm-strength winds and rainfall are already set high ahead of its passage over central Jamaica, including the capital, Kingston. The NHC has urged that "preparations should be rushed to completion".
The meteorological agency warns of a multi-day period with damaging winds and heavy rainfall likely to result in devastating and potentially life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness addressed the situation, acknowledging the anxiety and concern among residents while emphasizing the importance of being diligent in preparations.
Residents are advised to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards and to stock up on essential supplies.
Warnings extend to parts of Haiti, including the capital Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic, and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to exert a similar impact by mid-next week.
According to Haiti's Civil Protection agency, landslides caused by the hurricane have already resulted in two fatalities in Haiti.
Forecasts suggest Melissa will travel over Cuba by Wednesday, likely reducing to a category three storm by the time it reaches the island.
While linking individual weather events to climate change can be challenging, experts note that it appears to be influencing the frequency and severity of weather events. Warmer oceans contribute more moisture to the atmosphere, fueling hurricane formation.
Before the current hurricane season commenced, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted heightened activity this year, citing warmer sea temperatures and stronger monsoon patterns from West Africa, where many Atlantic storms originate.
If you are in the region, tell us about your preparations for the hurricane.
