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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

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

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.