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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Expected Path

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.