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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm generates up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

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

Even though Melissa is set to weaken to a fourth-level storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

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

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

Regional Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

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

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is making meteorological events more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, aiding in the creation of storms.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.