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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected well before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to manage worry and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.