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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Risk

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

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

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.