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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, causing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Category Five Hurricane Threat

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

Even though the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.