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Cyclone Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

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

Even though this storm is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address nervousness and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.