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Tropical Storm Melissa is forecast to become a infrequent highest-level cyclone as it turns toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by weather experts.

Warnings of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to thirty inches of precipitation and sea level surges as high as 13ft above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

Melissa is the thirteenth hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Risk

A category five storm is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

Although the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain predicted to begin ahead of it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness commented: "I know that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the most effective method to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

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

Broader Impact

Alerts are also ongoing for areas in Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

The hurricane is predicted to cross Cuba by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the open ocean.

By the time it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a category three storm.

Weather Context

While it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more severe.

Higher ocean heat produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of the current Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and likely enhanced seasonal rains around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms typically originate.