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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to escalate to a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

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

Wider Impact

Alerts are also active for regions of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

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

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the air, contributing to the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.