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Cyclone Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the beginning of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.