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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Category Five Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

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

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

The hurricane is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Context

While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.