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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

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

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

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

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also active for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

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

Projected Course

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Context

Even though it is hard to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.