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Cyclone the storm is predicted to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it veers towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of blackouts and structural damage have been released as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th named hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Storm Danger

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

Even though the hurricane is projected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before making landfall on the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across the island's interior - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and many mudslides," advised climate experts.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also active for areas in the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is hard to associate individual weather events to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more common and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, mentioning heated marine conditions and possible enhanced seasonal rains around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.