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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected well before it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

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

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Weather Background

While it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.