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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to handle nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Climate Connection

Although it is difficult to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, experts say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms often form.