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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.