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Hurricane Melissa is projected to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Course

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.