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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 195 km/h as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, according to meteorological authorities.

Alerts of electricity outages and damage to infrastructure have been issued as this storm produces up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although Melissa is expected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," advised meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address anxiety and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country such as the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by the middle of the week before passing across the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

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

Climate Connection

Although it is challenging to connect specific storms to climate change, experts say it is making meteorological events more common and more severe.

Increased sea temperatures generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, citing elevated ocean temperatures and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.