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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Danger

A category five storm is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is projected to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple rock slides," advised climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.