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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to address worry and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the development of storms.

Before the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.