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Cyclone the storm is projected to escalate to a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

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

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

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

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.