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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to become a rare Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many landslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

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

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Course

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

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

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.