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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.