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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Course

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of storms.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.