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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A highest-level storm is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official commented: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the optimal approach to handle worry and any unease and anxiety is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

The hurricane is predicted to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the air, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.