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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

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

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.