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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is set to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Connection

Even though it is hard to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.