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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, causing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Risk

A category five storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the nation.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance well before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to manage worry and any apprehension and anxiety is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for regions of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is expected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

Melissa is predicted to move across Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have diminished to a Category 3 hurricane.

Environmental Context

Although it is challenging to link individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures produce greater water vapor in the environment, helping fuel the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities predicted increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.