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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Projected Path

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.