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Hurricane the storm is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers towards Jamaica, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A category five storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.