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Cyclone the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

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

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

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

Weather Connection

Even though it is challenging to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.