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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare category five cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Weather Context

While it is challenging to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.