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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts towards Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many rock slides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to address nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.