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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods 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 reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many landslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

Although it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.