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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to become a infrequent highest-level storm as it veers toward Jamaica, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many landslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

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

Weather Background

Even though it is difficult to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.