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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Course

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.