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Hurricane the storm is forecast to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

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

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.