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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also active for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.