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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to become a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it turns towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

Melissa is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is projected to weaken to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to handle worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is projected to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.