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Hurricane the storm is forecast to become a uncommon category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to address nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Background

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

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.