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Cyclone the storm is forecast to escalate to a rare category five cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

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

Even though this storm is projected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain already expected long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.