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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been released as Melissa brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected well before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the best way to manage nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

Melissa is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

Even though it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, contributing to the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.