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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare Category 5 hurricane as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

The hurricane is projected to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.