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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a rare category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

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

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.