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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

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

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

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

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

While it is challenging to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.