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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

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

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.