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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

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

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.