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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening sudden floods and landslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A category five storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories emphasize that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and numerous rock slides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

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

Broader Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.