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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

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

Even though this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

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

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is hard to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.