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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.