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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.