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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare Category 5 cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected well before it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Background

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.