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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Context

Although it is hard to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.