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Cyclone Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent category five hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to link individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the air, contributing to the development of storms.

Before the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.