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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five hurricane as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

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

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa generates up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is projected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain already expected ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous rock slides," advised meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the official said: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the most effective method to manage worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Wider Effects

Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.