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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.