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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare category five cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

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

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Weather Connection

While it is difficult to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.