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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare Category 5 storm as it veers towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.