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Cyclone the storm is forecast to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it turns in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm brings up to 30 inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with winds of at least 157mph.

Although the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the storm will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance well before it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the city of Kingston - warnings state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"An extended timeframe of harmful winds and torrential rain has started and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and many rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government the statesman stated: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are anxious, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"Yet the best way to address worry and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

Residents are being told to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also active for regions of the neighboring country including the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to cross Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the open ocean.

By the moment it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have weakened to a category three cyclone.

Environmental Background

Although it is hard to link particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, researchers say it is making climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.