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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

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

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Course

This weather system is projected to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.