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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it veers towards Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

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

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five 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 arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

This weather system is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Connection

While it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.