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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Course

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

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

Weather Context

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.