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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to become a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it shifts towards Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

This weather system, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to 76cm of precipitation and storm surges as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four cyclone before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Critical Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it passes over the island's interior - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous rapid water accumulation and numerous landslides," counseled climate experts.

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

"Yet the best way to handle nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to secure their homes with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate essentials.

Regional Consequences

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of Haiti such as the capital, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and eastern Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Course

This weather system is forecast to move across the island nation by Wednesday before traveling via the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have weakened to a third-level storm.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to associate individual weather events to climate change, experts say it is resulting in meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Ahead of the commencement of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and possible more intense weather patterns around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.