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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

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

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

This weather system is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

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

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.