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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a rare category five storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

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

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is challenging to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.