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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Connection

Even though it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.