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Cyclone Melissa is projected to become a rare category five hurricane as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

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

Although the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

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

Climate Connection

Although it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.