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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts towards Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to address nervousness and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Environmental Connection

Even though it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.