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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Climate Background

Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.