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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Storm Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is projected to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

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

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.