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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to escalate to a uncommon category five storm as it shifts toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by early next week, according to weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa produces up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is set to weaken to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon landfall, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," urged weather authorities.

The nation's leader the statesman said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"But the optimal approach to address anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to be prepared."

Locals are being told to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the open ocean.

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

Climate Background

Although it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is making climate patterns more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate additional humidity in the environment, aiding in the formation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.