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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts towards Jamaica, causing dangerous sudden floods and mudslides.

The hurricane, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is presently veering toward the northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to hit the coast by early next week, according to weather experts.

Warnings of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rainfall and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above normal levels. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been urged.

This hurricane is the 13th named cyclone in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in the eleventh month.

Category Five Storm Danger

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest type, with sustained winds of at least 157 miles per hour.

While the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a category four storm before arriving at the island, authorities said there was "minimal real distinction in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the hurricane will be "equally strong" when it impacts the country.

Immediate Preparations

With tropical storm-level wind and rainfall anticipated well in advance well before it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the capital, Kingston - advisories emphasize that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and multiple landslides," counseled meteorological officials.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and rightfully so: you should be concerned.

"However the best way to handle nervousness and any apprehension and anxiety is to be prepared."

Inhabitants are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country including the primary urban center, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where this storm is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Expected Course

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and emerging into the open ocean.

By the time it reaches the Caribbean nation, it is anticipated to have weakened to a Category 3 storm.

Climate Background

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing weather phenomena increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Prior to the beginning of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted increased storm frequency, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes frequently develop.