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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.