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Hurricane the storm is projected to become a infrequent highest-level hurricane as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, delivering deadly rapid inundation and landslides.

The cyclone, which registered wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering northwest in the Caribbean and is projected to make landfall by early next week, based on data from weather experts.

Alerts of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and coastal flooding as high as 4m above normal levels. "Take cover without delay," residents have been urged.

The cyclone is the 13th cyclone in this year's Atlantic hurricane season, which typically ends in the eleventh month.

Category Five Hurricane Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is set to weaken to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on the island, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the country.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level winds and rain anticipated well in advance long before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"A multi-day period of damaging winds and torrential rain have begun and will cause devastating and dangerous flash flooding and numerous mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and appropriately: concern is justified.

"But the most effective method to address worry and any nervousness and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to protect their properties with sandbags and wooden boards, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Wider Consequences

Alerts are also ongoing for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides currently triggered by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to local authorities.

Projected Course

The hurricane is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Greater Antilles and out into the open ocean.

By the time it makes contact with the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level hurricane.

Weather Background

While it is hard to link specific storms to climate change, scientists say it is causing climate patterns more prevalent and more extreme.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Before the commencement of this year's Caribbean cyclone season, weather organizations projected increased storm frequency, citing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.