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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three storm.

Environmental Context

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.