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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it veers towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

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

Category Five Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

Even though it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.