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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to address worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.