Cyclone the storm Gains Power While Heads Towards the Island Nation

Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Even though it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

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

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.