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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

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

Regional Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is projected to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Connection

Although it is challenging to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.