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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to become a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as Melissa produces up to 76cm of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

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

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it hits the island.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any nervousness and concern is to stay ready."

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

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms typically originate.