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

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

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

While Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to manage nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

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

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.