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How did Hurricane Melissa become a Category 5 storm?
Hurricane Melissa formed in the Atlantic as one of the strongest storms on record, reaching Category 5 with winds of 185 mph. Its rapid intensification was driven by warm ocean waters and favorable atmospheric conditions, which allowed it to grow quickly and become extremely powerful before making landfall in the Caribbean.
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What’s the link between climate change and stronger hurricanes?
Experts say climate change has increased the likelihood of intense hurricanes like Melissa. Rising sea temperatures provide more energy for storms, making them stronger and more destructive. Studies show that such storms are now more frequent and severe due to global warming, which accelerates their development and intensifies their impact.
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Which regions are most affected by Hurricane Melissa?
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba, causing widespread destruction, including power outages, blocked roads, and damaged homes. These regions are particularly vulnerable due to their geographic location and existing infrastructure challenges, making recovery efforts slow and difficult.
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What are experts saying about future storm risks?
Meteorologists and climate scientists warn that storms like Melissa are likely to become more common and intense as climate change continues. They emphasize the need for improved preparedness and global efforts to reduce emissions to mitigate future risks of extreme weather events.
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How does ocean warming affect hurricane development?
Warming oceans provide more heat and moisture, which fuels hurricanes and leads to faster intensification. This means storms can reach higher wind speeds more quickly, increasing their destructive potential and making early warning and preparedness even more critical.
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What can be done to reduce the impact of future hurricanes?
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is essential to slow global warming and decrease the severity of future storms. Additionally, investing in resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness can help communities better withstand hurricanes and minimize damage.