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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Danger

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

Even though this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa 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 Course

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three storm.

Climate Context

Even though it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.