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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a infrequent category five hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is expected to weaken to a category four storm before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain already expected long before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.