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

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by Tuesday, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rain and storm surges as high as 4m above normal levels. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Highest-Level Cyclone Threat

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before arriving at Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance long before it passes over Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

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

"However the best way to manage nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being advised to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather essentials.

Regional Effects

Advisories are also ongoing for parts of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides already being caused by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

The hurricane is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to connect individual weather events to climate change, scientists say it is making weather phenomena more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, contributing to the creation of tropical cyclones.

Before the beginning of the current Atlantic storm period, meteorological authorities projected increased storm frequency, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and possible more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes frequently develop.