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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been released as this storm produces up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

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

While Melissa is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to handle anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Expected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

While it is challenging to link individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.