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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Storm Danger

A category five storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

The hurricane is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Context

While it is hard to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.