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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare Category 5 cyclone as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it passes over Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to address nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is predicted to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.