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Hurricane Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is projected to weaken to a category four storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.