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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the creation of storms.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.