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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

The hurricane is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.