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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare Category 5 cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as Melissa brings up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

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

Regional Effects

Alerts are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

Melissa is predicted to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to link individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create more moisture in the air, aiding in the development of storms.

Before the start of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.