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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

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

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

Even though it is hard to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.