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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a rare category five storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

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

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.