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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

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 projected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also active for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

The hurricane is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three storm.

Climate Context

While it is hard to associate individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.