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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm brings up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Environmental Background

While it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.