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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a rare Category 5 storm as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

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

While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is challenging to associate individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.