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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.