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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been released as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

Even though it is hard to link specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems typically originate.