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Hurricane the storm is forecast to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded 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 reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected well before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.