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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

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

Although the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

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

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

Although it is hard to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.