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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, according to weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to address nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

While it is hard to associate specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the air, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.