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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it turns in the direction of the Caribbean island, bringing deadly flash flooding and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is now shifting northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to make landfall by Tuesday, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and damage to infrastructure have been issued as Melissa generates up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," locals have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Storm Threat

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it crosses the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - alerts indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many landslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman commented: "I realize that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: worry is natural.

"However the most effective method to address worry and any apprehension and worry is to stay ready."

Locals are being advised to secure their homes with sand barriers and timber panels, and to stock up on essentials.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

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

Expected Course

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

Even though it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, researchers say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans produce more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, citing elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems typically originate.