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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Connection

While it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.