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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Storm Risk

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

While Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Background

Even though it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.