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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers towards Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Expected Path

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

Even though it is challenging to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the environment, contributing to the development of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.