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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

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

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

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

While this storm is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

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

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Connection

While it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.