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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also active for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Context

While it is difficult to connect individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.