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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, delivering dangerous rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th hurricane in the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching Jamaica, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Preparations

With storm-force gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and numerous mudslides," urged meteorological officials.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: concern is justified.

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

Inhabitants are being instructed to secure their homes with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is forecast to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Environmental Context

Even though it is challenging to link specific storms to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the environment, contributing to the formation of storms.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.