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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

Melissa is predicted to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three storm.

Climate Connection

Even though it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.