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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers toward Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Storm Risk

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.