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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to thirty 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 storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

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

Even though this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

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

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

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

Future Course

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Weather Connection

While it is challenging to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the air, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.