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Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a rare Category 5 cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is projected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

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

Wider Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Connection

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.