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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a rare category five hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening sudden floods and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Critical Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance long before it moves across central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and multiple mudslides," advised climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to address worry and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by midweek before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Context

Although it is hard to connect specific storms to global warming, researchers say it is causing climate patterns increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.