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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it shifts towards Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

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

Category Five Hurricane Threat

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

Although the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to manage worry and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by the middle of the week before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Connection

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.