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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

Melissa is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

While Melissa is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the city of Kingston - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to manage anxiety and any unease and anxiety is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Future Course

This weather system is projected to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Connection

While it is difficult to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat create greater water vapor in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.