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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

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

While Melissa is expected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to handle anxiety and any unease and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Background

Although it is hard to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.