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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Path

The hurricane is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing climate patterns increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.