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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to escalate to a uncommon Category 5 cyclone as it veers toward the Caribbean island, delivering dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

This weather system, which registered winds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to hit the coast by Tuesday, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Alerts of power cuts and structural damage have been issued as this storm generates up to thirty inches of rainfall and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th storm in this year's Atlantic season, which normally finishes in November.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is expected to reduce in intensity to a category four storm before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it crosses central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple landslides," urged weather authorities.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to manage anxiety and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country such as the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have caused two deaths in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it makes contact with Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a category three storm.

Weather Background

Even though it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the start of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.