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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is set to weaken to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

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

Regional Impact

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Course

Melissa is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three storm.

Weather Background

Although it is difficult to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.