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Hurricane Melissa is projected to escalate to a rare category five cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

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

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three storm.

Environmental Background

Even though it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.