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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level hurricane as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.