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Hurricane Melissa is projected to escalate to a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, bringing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as this storm produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of storms.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.