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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.