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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three storm.

Climate Background

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.