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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon category five storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

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

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.