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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare Category 5 cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been released as this storm generates up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the optimal approach to address worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.