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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a uncommon category five cyclone as it shifts toward the Caribbean island, delivering deadly sudden floods and landslides.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to reach land by early next week, according to weather experts.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm generates up to 76cm of rainfall and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," locals have been told.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Most Intense Cyclone Threat

A highest-level hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is expected to weaken to a category four storm before arriving at the island, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Critical Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain already expected ahead of it moves across Jamaica's central region - perhaps encompassing the national capital - advisories indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall has started and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader Andrew Holness said: "I know that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"Yet the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country including the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle portion of the coming week.

Mudslides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to local authorities.

Projected Path

This weather system is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is forecast to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Climate Context

While it is difficult to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the development of hurricanes.

Before the start of this year's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies projected above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where Atlantic storms typically originate.