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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is projected to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

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

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.