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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to address worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Context

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.