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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three storm.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.