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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

While the hurricane is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official 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 unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Background

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.