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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Storm Threat

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any unease and concern is to be prepared."

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

Wider Effects

Advisories are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.