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Tropical Storm Melissa is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level storm as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

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

While Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to handle anxiety and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Course

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three hurricane.

Climate Connection

While it is hard to connect individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is resulting in weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures generate greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted above-normal activity, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.