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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a rare Category 5 storm as it turns towards Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as Melissa brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Cyclone Threat

A highest-level storm is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though Melissa is projected to weaken to a Category 4 cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and numerous mudslides," advised meteorological officials.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"However the best way to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also ongoing for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where Melissa is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Mudslides presently generated by the cyclone have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

While it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures create additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the formation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and likely stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.