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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a rare highest-level cyclone as it shifts in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing deadly sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean region and is projected to hit the coast by midweek, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and structural damage have been released as this storm generates up to 30 inches of rainfall and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with sustained winds of at least 252 km/h.

Although this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a fourth-level cyclone before reaching Jamaica, authorities 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 nation.

Immediate Readiness Measures

With storm-force gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it crosses central Jamaica - perhaps encompassing the national capital - warnings state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and multiple rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness commented: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to handle anxiety and any unease and worry is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Advisories are also in effect for parts of Haiti encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to move across Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Caribbean archipelago and out into the Atlantic.

By the time it makes contact with Cuba, it is predicted to have reduced to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Connection

Even though it is difficult to connect individual weather events to climate change, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more extreme.

Higher ocean heat generate additional humidity in the air, contributing to the formation of storms.

Prior to the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted higher-than-average occurrence, mentioning elevated ocean temperatures and likely enhanced seasonal rains around the western African continent - where hurricanes often form.