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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Background

Even though it is hard to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.