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Hurricane the storm is forecast to escalate to a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

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

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

Melissa is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Environmental Background

Even though it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.