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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

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

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A category five storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Connection

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the air, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.