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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

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

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.