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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Storm Risk

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

Although the hurricane is set to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

Melissa is predicted to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Although it is challenging to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.