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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Impact

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

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Prior to the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.