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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before reaching the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also active for parts of the neighboring country 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.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.