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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

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

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Background

Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.