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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a infrequent category five cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, causing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three storm.

Environmental Connection

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.