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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Weather Connection

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.