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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a infrequent category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Environmental Background

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.