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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

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

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Climate Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.