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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, based on data from weather experts.

Advisories of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five cyclone is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," urged weather authorities.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any unease and anxiety is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Trajectory

Melissa is projected to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 storm.

Weather Background

Even though it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena more prevalent and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of storms.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.