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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare highest-level storm as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

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

Climate Context

Although it is hard to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.