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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Background

While it is hard to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

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

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.