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Tropical Storm the storm is forecast to become a rare highest-level hurricane as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly rapid inundation and mudslides.

The cyclone, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by midweek, as reported by meteorological authorities.

Warnings of electricity outages and structural damage have been issued as this storm brings up to 76cm of rain and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in November.

Category Five Hurricane Threat

A highest-level cyclone is the strongest type, with winds of at least 252 km/h.

While the hurricane is expected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 hurricane before reaching the island, meteorologists said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it impacts the country.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - advisories state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"Several days of harmful winds and intense precipitation are underway and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: concern is justified.

"But the best way to handle nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Locals are being told to fortify their houses with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Projected Path

This weather system is predicted to cross Cuba by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have reduced to a Category 3 cyclone.

Climate Background

While it is hard to connect particular meteorological occurrences to climate change, experts say it is making weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more severe.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies predicted increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible more intense weather patterns around the western African continent - where tropical systems often form.