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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the best way to manage worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.