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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 storm as it turns toward the Caribbean island, causing dangerous sudden floods and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded 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 reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been told.

Melissa is the 13th hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four cyclone before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it hits the nation.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and many rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official commented: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

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

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on necessary supplies.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also active for areas in Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

This weather system is predicted to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is difficult to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems frequently develop.