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Hurricane the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Background

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.