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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address worry and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Consequences

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

Landslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.