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Cyclone Melissa is projected to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to manage worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Context

Although it is difficult to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.