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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

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

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Background

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.