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Cyclone the storm is forecast to become a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and mudslides.

The hurricane, 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 anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is expected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to address worry and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

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

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Background

Although it is difficult to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.