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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

While the hurricane is expected 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 storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Context

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.