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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A category five storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

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

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.