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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the air, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.