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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to become a rare category five cyclone as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

Even though the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Background

Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is causing climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.