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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a rare Category 5 cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the best way to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

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

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Context

Although it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.