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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it veers toward Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Background

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.