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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

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

Even though this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

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

Broader Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.