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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a rare category five storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

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

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected well before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.