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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a category four storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also active for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

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

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.