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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a rare highest-level cyclone as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

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

Although this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to manage nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected 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.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the environment, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.