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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa produces up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Climate Connection

Although it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.