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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

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

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is making climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.