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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to handle nervousness and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns increasingly frequent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.