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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

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

Future Course

This weather system is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.