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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, bringing deadly sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by midweek, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and multiple mudslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to manage worry and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather essentials.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, experts say it is making climate patterns more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.