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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a infrequent category five storm as it turns toward Jamaica, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been urged.

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

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address nervousness and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and timber panels, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Alerts are also active for parts of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and entering the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Environmental Context

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the development of hurricanes.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes typically originate.