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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

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

Climate Context

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.