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Tropical Storm Melissa is projected to escalate to a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing deadly flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though the hurricane is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin ahead of it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous landslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader the statesman commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle worry and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate essentials.

Regional Impact

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides presently generated by the hurricane have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and entering the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

While it is challenging to connect specific storms to global warming, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate additional humidity in the air, aiding in the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, citing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where tropical systems often form.