Hurricane the storm Grows Stronger As It Moves Toward the Island Nation

Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a rare highest-level storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to reach land by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Advisories of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

Melissa is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With storm-force winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the optimal approach to manage anxiety and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Regional Impact

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

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

Weather Context

While it is challenging to connect particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the air, aiding in the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms often form.