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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare Category 5 storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is set to weaken to a fourth-level storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.