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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

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

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to handle nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of storms.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.