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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Category Five Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Path

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Context

Although it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.