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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it veers toward the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, according to weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

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

While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is challenging to connect individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.