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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a rare Category 5 storm as it veers towards Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

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

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to address nervousness and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is challenging to link specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is making climate patterns more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.