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Hurricane Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

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

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Course

The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

Although it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.