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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

While it is challenging to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.