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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged weather authorities.

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

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.