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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain already expected long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.