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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers toward Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa produces up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the air, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.