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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is projected to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Background

While it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.