Hurricane Melissa, now a catastrophic Category 5 storm, is churning toward Jamaica with potentially devastating impacts expected across the Caribbean, the National Hurricane Center said Monday.

Hurricane Melissa intensified to Category 5 strength Monday as it neared Jamaica with up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) of rain and a life-threatening storm surge.

“If those rains were to occur, you’re talking about catastrophic flooding potential,” said Jamie Rhome, the center’s deputy director.