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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the national capital - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to manage worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Future Course

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

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

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.