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Cyclone the storm is projected to become a rare category five storm as it shifts towards the Caribbean island, bringing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which registered winds of up to 120 miles per hour as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning northwest in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to reach land by early next week, based on data from meteorological authorities.

Alerts of blackouts and structural damage have been issued as this storm produces up to 76cm of precipitation and sea level surges as high as thirteen feet above ground. "Find safe refuge immediately," residents have been advised.

The cyclone is the 13th storm in the current Atlantic storm period, which normally finishes in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Threat

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

Although the hurricane is set to diminish in strength to a fourth-level hurricane before reaching Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon making contact with land, and that the cyclone will be "at least that intensity" when it hits the nation.

Urgent Preparations

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected well before it passes over central Jamaica - including potentially the national capital - advisories indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding and many rock slides," urged climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated: "I know that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"However the most effective method to address nervousness and any unease and concern is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being advised to protect their properties with sandbags and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Impact

Warnings are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country such as the main city, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is expected to bring analogous consequences by the middle of next week.

Landslides currently triggered by the hurricane have resulted in two fatalities in the country, according to emergency services.

Expected Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to cross the island nation by midweek before passing across the Caribbean archipelago and emerging into the Atlantic.

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

Climate Context

While it is challenging to link particular meteorological occurrences to global warming, researchers say it is causing meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Higher ocean heat produce more moisture in the air, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Before the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, meteorological authorities forecast higher-than-average occurrence, referencing heated marine conditions and potential stronger monsoon activity around the western African continent - where tropical systems typically originate.