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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

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

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Connection

Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.