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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent category five storm as it veers toward the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected long before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many rock slides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman said: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the most effective method to handle worry and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is projected to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

Although it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.