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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.