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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to manage worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Connection

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.