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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm generates up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to handle nervousness and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

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

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.