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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare Category 5 cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many landslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to manage worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

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

Broader Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

Although it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.