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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

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

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the air, contributing to the formation of storms.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.