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Hurricane the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts towards Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered 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 projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to manage nervousness and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Context

While it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.