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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon category five storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

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 region and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

This weather system is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.