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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, according to weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

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

Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

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

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Course

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Background

Although it is hard to link specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.