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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is hard to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.