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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it turns toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.