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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage worry and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.