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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare Category 5 cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to handle anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Background

Even though it is difficult to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.