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Cyclone Melissa is projected to become a uncommon category five storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.