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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a rare category five storm as it turns towards Jamaica, causing deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle worry and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Course

Melissa is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Connection

Even though it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.