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Hurricane Melissa is projected to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by midweek, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Threat

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

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address anxiety and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

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

Future Course

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the air, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.