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Cyclone the storm is projected to escalate to a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

Although it is hard to associate specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the creation of storms.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.