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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.