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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

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

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Environmental Connection

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.