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Hurricane the storm is forecast to strengthen into a uncommon category five storm as it veers in the direction of the Caribbean island, causing dangerous flash flooding and mudslides.

The cyclone, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane produces up to 30 inches of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," inhabitants have been told.

The cyclone is the 13th named hurricane in this year's Atlantic storm period, which usually concludes in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A category five cyclone is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

While this storm is projected to diminish in strength to a Category 4 storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - alerts state that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and multiple rock slides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are countless citizens who are concerned, who are extremely apprehensive, and appropriately: you should be concerned.

"But the best way to manage nervousness and any nervousness and worry is to be prepared."

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

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also in effect for areas in Haiti encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring similar effects by the midweek period.

Mudslides currently triggered by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Path

This weather system is forecast to cross the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Greater Antilles and entering the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have weakened to a third-level hurricane.

Climate Connection

Although it is hard to associate individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is making meteorological events more common and more extreme.

Increased sea temperatures create greater water vapor in the air, aiding in the creation of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, weather organizations projected higher-than-average occurrence, referencing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.