Hurricane Melissa has intensified into a Category 5 storm as it draws closer to Jamaica, where forecasters say it will unleash catastrophic flooding, landslides and widespread damage

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm -- making it the strongest storm ever recorded to hit the island with winds up to 185 mph and up to 40 inches of rain expected.

The US National Hurricane Centre warns of an "extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation" as the violent category five storm hits the island.

Hurricane Melissa intensified to Category 5 strength Monday as it neared Jamaica, where forecasters said it would unleash catastrophic flooding, multiple landslides and extensive infrastructure damage.

Melissa, which is now a Category 4 hurricane, is bringing catastrophic winds, rain and storm surge to Jamaica, where residents and tourists are sheltering in place. The center of Melissa is now moving off the northwest coast of Jamaica as a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds currently at 145 mph.

Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm on Tuesday and continues to threaten parts of the Caribbean.

Hurricane Melissa intensified to Category 5 strength Monday as it neared Jamaica, where forecasters said it would unleash catastrophic flooding, multiple landslides and extensive infrastructure damage.