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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five hurricane as it veers towards the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and rock falls.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, according to hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane brings up to 30 inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been advised.

This hurricane is the 13th hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in November.

Most Intense Storm Threat

A category five hurricane is the most intense classification, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

While this storm is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 storm before reaching the island, experts said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the nation.

Critical Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain predicted to begin long before it passes over central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of damaging winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and multiple rock slides," urged climate experts.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I realize that there are many Jamaicans who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"But the most effective method to manage nervousness and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Wider Effects

Warnings are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring analogous consequences by the middle portion of the coming week.

Rock slides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three hurricane.

Weather Context

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, climate agencies forecast above-normal activity, mentioning warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes frequently develop.