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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare Category 5 cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm generates up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected well before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to handle worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also active for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.