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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address worry and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three storm.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making climate patterns more common and more intense.

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

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.