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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it veers toward Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

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

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is making climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.