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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a rare highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.