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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected long before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.