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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening rapid inundation and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa generates up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th named storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though Melissa is projected to weaken to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - alerts emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The nation's leader the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Advisories are also active for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Trajectory

Melissa is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Context

Although it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.