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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a rare category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Category Five Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to manage nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Context

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.