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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.