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Cyclone the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the best way to address worry and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Path

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.