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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon category five cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

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

Even though the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

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

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.