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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been announced as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

Melissa is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic season, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

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

While this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for regions of the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

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

Future Path

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Even though it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.