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Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to strengthen into a infrequent Category 5 hurricane as it veers toward Jamaica, causing life-threatening sudden floods and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is now shifting north-west in the Caribbean and is anticipated to reach land by midweek, according to meteorological authorities.

Advisories of power cuts and disruption to utilities have been released as this storm brings up to 30 inches of precipitation and storm surges as high as thirteen feet above typical tides. "Seek shelter now," inhabitants have been advised.

The cyclone is the thirteenth hurricane in this year's Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A Category 5 hurricane is the most intense classification, with wind speeds of at least 252 km/h.

Even though this storm is projected to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before making landfall on Jamaica, meteorologists said there was "very little practical difference in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the hurricane will be "just as powerful" when it strikes the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength winds and rain anticipated well in advance ahead of it crosses Jamaica's central region - including potentially the city of Kingston - warnings indicate that "preparations should be rushed to completion".

"An extended timeframe of destructive gusts and intense precipitation have begun and will cause catastrophic and life-threatening sudden floods and multiple mudslides," counseled climate experts.

The country's head of government the official said: "I know that there are numerous residents who are worried, who are extremely apprehensive, and with good reason: you should be concerned.

"But the optimal approach to address nervousness and any unease and worry is to remain prepared."

Residents are being advised to fortify their houses with sand barriers and plywood sheets, and to gather basic necessities.

Broader Consequences

Advisories are also active for parts of Haiti such as the main city, Port au Prince, the adjacent nation and the eastern part of Cuba, where the hurricane is projected to bring comparable impacts by the middle of next week.

Landslides already being caused by the storm have resulted in two fatalities in Haiti, according to the nation's Civil Protection agency.

Projected Trajectory

The hurricane is forecast to pass over the island nation by the middle of the week before moving through the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic Ocean.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a category three storm.

Weather Connection

Even though it is hard to connect specific storms to environmental shifts, scientists say it is causing meteorological events more prevalent and more severe.

Warmer oceans generate more moisture in the environment, helping fuel the creation of hurricanes.

Ahead of the start of this season's Atlantic hurricane season, climate agencies forecast increased storm frequency, referencing warmer seas and potential more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where Atlantic storms frequently develop.