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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 storm as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Cyclone Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, experts said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to manage worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the cyclone have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Connection

Even though it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the development of storms.

Before the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, citing heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.