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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a rare category five cyclone as it veers towards Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

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

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Background

Although it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.