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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to manage anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also active for parts of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Context

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.