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Hurricane the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Future Path

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.