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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

The hurricane is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of storms.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.