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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

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

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Path

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Environmental Background

Although it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.