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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching the island, experts 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 hits the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

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

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Connection

While it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.