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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

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

Climate Connection

Even though it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is making climate patterns increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.