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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare category five storm as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

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

Category Five Storm Threat

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.