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Hurricane the storm is projected to escalate to a rare category five storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

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

Future Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.