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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

The hurricane is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

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

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.