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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers towards Jamaica, bringing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

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

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

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

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

Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Course

This weather system is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is challenging to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the air, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.