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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is challenging to associate specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.