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Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as Melissa produces up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

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

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many mudslides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a category three storm.

Climate Context

Even though it is challenging to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.