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Cyclone Melissa is forecast to become a rare highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Environmental Background

Although it is challenging to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes typically originate.