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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.