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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it veers towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Connection

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.