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Tropical Storm the storm is projected to escalate to a uncommon highest-level storm as it shifts in the direction of Jamaica, bringing dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

This weather system, which recorded winds of up to 120 mph as of 6:00 AM GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean and is expected to hit the coast by midweek, according to weather experts.

Alerts of blackouts and disruption to utilities have been issued as this storm generates up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as 4m above ground. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth storm in the ongoing Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Most Intense Hurricane Danger

A highest-level hurricane is the most intense classification, with winds of at least 157mph.

Even though this storm is expected to weaken to a Category 4 storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "almost no noticeable change in the general consequences" upon landfall, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it hits the island.

Urgent Readiness Measures

With tropical storm-level gusts and precipitation predicted to begin well before it crosses the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the capital, Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"Several days of harmful winds and heavy rainfall have begun and will cause severe and deadly flash flooding and many rock slides," counseled climate experts.

Jamaican Prime Minister the statesman commented: "I realize that there are countless citizens who are anxious, who are extremely apprehensive, and rightfully so: worry is natural.

"However the best way to manage worry and any unease and worry is to be prepared."

Locals are being instructed to protect their properties with sand barriers and wooden boards, and to stock up on basic necessities.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for parts of the neighboring country encompassing the primary urban center, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where this storm is anticipated to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Rock slides presently generated by the cyclone have already killed two in the country, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Future Path

The hurricane is projected to move across the island nation by Wednesday before passing across the Greater Antilles and emerging into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the point it arrives at Cuba, it is predicted to have diminished to a third-level storm.

Climate Background

While it is difficult to link individual weather events to global warming, experts say it is making meteorological events increasingly frequent and more intense.

Warmer oceans create more moisture in the atmosphere, aiding in the formation of hurricanes.

Prior to the commencement of the current Atlantic storm period, climate agencies predicted higher-than-average occurrence, referencing elevated ocean temperatures and potential stronger monsoon activity around West Africa - where tropical systems often form.