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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent category five hurricane as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage worry and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.