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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

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

Although this storm is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to address nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.