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Hurricane the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns towards Jamaica, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is projected to weaken to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

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

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

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

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

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.