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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, authorities 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 hits the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple landslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

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

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.