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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

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

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

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

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.