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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon category five storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

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

While Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

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

Climate Background

While it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.