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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

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

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the best way to manage worry and any apprehension 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 necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to link individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.