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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

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

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any unease and concern is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also active for regions of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.