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Hurricane the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is expected to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Connection

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.