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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.