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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.