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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five storm as it veers toward Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

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

While this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to manage nervousness and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

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

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Weather Connection

While it is difficult to link specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.