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Hurricane Melissa is projected to escalate to a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

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

Even though Melissa is projected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected well before it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Weather Context

Although it is challenging to associate individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.