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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A category five storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

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

Projected Path

This weather system is projected to move across the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Climate Background

Although it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.