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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a rare category five storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named cyclone in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Course

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the air, helping fuel the development of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.