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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to become a rare category five cyclone as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

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

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the air, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.