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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Background

While it is hard to link specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.