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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is making climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.