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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

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

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

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

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.