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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

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

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.

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

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.