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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a rare highest-level storm as it shifts towards Jamaica, bringing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by early next week, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Even though the hurricane is set to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force winds and rain predicted to begin long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous sudden floods and many landslides," urged meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the statesman stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"Yet the optimal approach to address nervousness and any nervousness and anxiety is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Broader Effects

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Mudslides already being caused by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat produce greater water vapor in the environment, contributing to the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast increased storm frequency, mentioning warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.