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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare category five hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

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

While this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple mudslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

Melissa is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Background

Even though it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.