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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a rare highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Storm Risk

A category five storm is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is projected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the country.

Critical Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to manage anxiety and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready."

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

Regional Impact

Alerts are also in effect for parts of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to pass over the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Background

Although it is hard to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing warmer seas and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes typically originate.