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Cyclone Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent Category 5 cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.