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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it veers towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is set to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to manage worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

This weather system is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the air, contributing to the creation of storms.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.