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Cyclone Melissa is projected to strengthen into a rare highest-level hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to handle anxiety and any nervousness and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also active for parts of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

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

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

While it is difficult to connect individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.