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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the best way to address worry and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.