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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Connection

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.