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Hurricane Melissa is projected to escalate to a rare highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the environment, aiding in the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.