Cyclone the storm Gains Power As It Moves Toward Jamaica

Tropical Storm the storm is predicted to escalate to a infrequent category five cyclone as it veers in the direction of Jamaica, causing deadly flash flooding and rock falls.

The hurricane, which recorded wind speeds of up to 120 mph as of 0600 Greenwich Mean Time, is presently veering north-west in the Caribbean Sea and is projected to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Alerts of electricity outages and disruption to utilities have been announced as the hurricane brings up to thirty inches of rain and coastal flooding as high as 13ft above ground. "Seek shelter now," residents have been advised.

This hurricane is the thirteenth hurricane in the current Atlantic storm period, which typically ends in late autumn.

Highest-Level Hurricane Threat

A category five hurricane is the strongest type, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Although this storm is set to diminish in strength to a category four hurricane before making landfall on Jamaica, experts said there was "minimal real distinction in the total effects" upon reaching the coast, and that the cyclone will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Immediate Safety Steps

With storm-force wind and rainfall already expected long before it passes over the island's interior - perhaps encompassing the national capital - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"An extended timeframe of damaging winds and intense precipitation has started and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and many landslides," advised weather authorities.

The country's head of government Andrew Holness stated: "I understand that there are many Jamaicans who are worried, who are deeply troubled, and with good reason: worry is natural.

"Yet the most effective method to address nervousness and any apprehension and worry is to remain prepared."

Inhabitants are being told to fortify their houses with protective bags and timber panels, and to accumulate necessary supplies.

Regional Consequences

Alerts are also in effect for areas in the neighboring country encompassing the capital, Port au Prince, the Dominican Republic and Cuba's eastern region, where the hurricane is projected to bring similar effects by the middle of next week.

Landslides presently generated by the hurricane have caused two deaths in the country, according to local authorities.

Expected Path

This weather system is projected to pass over Cuba by Wednesday before moving through the Antillas Mayores and entering the Atlantic.

By the moment it arrives at Cuba, it is anticipated to have diminished to a third-level cyclone.

Weather Background

While it is hard to associate particular meteorological occurrences to environmental shifts, experts say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Warmer oceans create additional humidity in the air, helping fuel the development of tropical cyclones.

Ahead of the commencement of the current Caribbean cyclone season, meteorological authorities forecast above-normal activity, referencing warmer seas and likely more intense weather patterns around West Africa - where hurricanes often form.