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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a infrequent category five hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.