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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent category five cyclone as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Storm Risk

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Projected Path

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Environmental Connection

Even though it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.