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Cyclone the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.