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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it turns toward Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Connection

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

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.