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Cyclone the storm is projected to strengthen into a uncommon Category 5 hurricane as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, delivering life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 195 km/h as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to reach land by early next week, as reported by hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and structural damage have been announced as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rainfall and coastal flooding as high as 4m above typical tides. "Take cover without delay," residents have been advised.

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

Highest-Level Hurricane Risk

A highest-level cyclone is the most powerful category, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though the hurricane is set to reduce in intensity to a Category 4 cyclone before arriving at the island, meteorologists said there was "almost no noticeable change in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "at least that intensity" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength wind and rainfall predicted to begin well before it moves across central Jamaica - possibly even the national capital - alerts state that "readiness efforts must be accelerated".

"Several days of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening rapid water accumulation and many mudslides," advised weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official stated: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"But the best way to manage anxiety and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Residents are being instructed to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Alerts are also in effect for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and eastern Cuba, where the hurricane is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the midweek period.

Landslides currently triggered by the cyclone have caused two deaths in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Path

This weather system is predicted to move across Cuba by Wednesday before traveling via the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at the Caribbean nation, it is predicted to have reduced to a Category 3 hurricane.

Weather Connection

Although it is difficult to associate specific storms to environmental shifts, researchers say it is making weather phenomena more prevalent and more intense.

Warmer oceans produce greater water vapor in the atmosphere, helping fuel the creation of storms.

Prior to the beginning of this season's Caribbean cyclone season, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where hurricanes often form.