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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

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

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Context

Although it is hard to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.