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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Path

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.