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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by early next week, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to manage worry and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

The hurricane is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.