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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Storm Threat

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is difficult to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.