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Cyclone the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

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

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - alerts emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

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

Before the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.