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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though this storm is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous landslides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to handle worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Context

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.