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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to weather experts.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Context

While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.