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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a infrequent category five storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Course

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.