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Hurricane the storm is projected to escalate to a rare category five storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Context

Although it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.