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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.