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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making climate patterns increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.