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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Category Five Storm Threat

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

Although this storm is expected to weaken to a fourth-level hurricane before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to manage worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being told to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for parts of Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Connection

Even though it is hard to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.