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Cyclone Melissa is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to link specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.