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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it turns toward the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

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

While this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level storm before reaching Jamaica, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to handle anxiety and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Locals are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Regional Effects

Alerts are also active for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 cyclone.

Weather Context

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

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.