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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

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

While this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti encompassing 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.

Projected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Connection

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.