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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to address nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Although it is hard to connect specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.