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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to manage worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.