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Hurricane the storm is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level storm as it veers towards Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to manage worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also active for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Context

Even though it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.