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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to become a uncommon highest-level cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and rock falls.

This weather system, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting toward the northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Category Five Cyclone Risk

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While Melissa is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the island.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation already expected long before it passes over central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - advisories indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with sandbags and timber panels, and to accumulate basic necessities.

Wider Consequences

Warnings are also active for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring similar effects by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to pass over Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a Category 3 cyclone.

Environmental Background

While it is difficult to link specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in weather phenomena more common and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, contributing to the development of storms.

Ahead of the start of the current Atlantic storm period, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, citing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.