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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare category five cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected long before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Context

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.