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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to escalate to a rare Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been released as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Storm Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is expected to weaken to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it passes over the island's interior - including potentially the national capital - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," counseled meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the most effective method to address worry and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

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

Projected Trajectory

This weather system is predicted to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches Cuba, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

Even though it is challenging to connect individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is making meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the creation of hurricanes.

Before the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and potential enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where tropical systems frequently develop.