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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

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

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the environment, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.