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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a infrequent highest-level storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Path

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Environmental Background

Even though it is challenging to associate individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the environment, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.