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Hurricane Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three storm.

Environmental Connection

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.