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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While Melissa is projected to reduce in intensity to a category four hurricane before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - alerts indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to stock up on essentials.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

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

Climate Background

Even though it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is causing climate patterns increasingly frequent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the environment, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where tropical systems frequently develop.