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Hurricane the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare category five hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

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

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Path

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.