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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

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

Category Five Hurricane Threat

A category five storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is projected to weaken to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.