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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage worry and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Background

Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.