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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

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

Although Melissa is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

Although it is hard to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.