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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.