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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

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

Even though Melissa is set to weaken to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

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

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation 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 hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.