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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm produces up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Storm Risk

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

Even though Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also active for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is challenging to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.