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Cyclone Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to handle anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.