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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a rare highest-level cyclone as it veers towards Jamaica, bringing deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by midweek, according to weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - including potentially the national capital - alerts indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many landslides," counseled weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"However the optimal approach to address worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is projected to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the creation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.