The category four storm could see as much as 40 inches of rain fall when it arrives. Jamaica is already experiencing heavy rain and high winds with floodwaters blocking some roads into Kingston.

The BBC added Haiti could be more seriously affected as the country is still finding its feet following the 2010 earthquake and an ensuing cholera epidemic.

Authorities are warning Haitians to stock up on food and water as well as make their homes secure. Many of the poorest are still living in tents following the earthquake.

The storm is then predicted to hit east Cuba tonight where a hurricane warning has been issued.

"Wherever that centre passes close to would see the worst winds and that’s what’s projected to happen for the western tip of Haiti," US hurricane specialist John Cangilosi said.

"There is a big concern for rains there and also a big concern for a storm surge."

The storm is expected to pass east of Florida through the Bahamas, although it is too soon to say whether it will hit the US coast.