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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.