The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has been advised by the Meteorological Service that a Flash Flood Watch has been issued for low-lying and flood-prone areas of all parishes until 5:00 p.m. today.

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH means that flash flooding is possible and residents are advised to take precautionary measures. Be ready for quick action if flooding is observed or if a warning is issued. A Flash Flood Warning means that flooding has occurred or will take place very soon.

A Trough across Jamaica and the western Caribbean continues to influence weather conditions

across the island. Satellite imagery indicates cloudy conditions across most parishes with

showers and isolated thunderstorm through last night into this morning with the strongest activity

affecting sections of northwestern and southern parishes.

The Trough is expected to remain across the central Caribbean, including Jamaica until Sunday,

producing periods of heavy showers and thunderstorms at times. There is, therefore, the

potential for flash flooding.

Fishers and other marine interests are advised to exercise caution, as gusty winds and rough

seas are likely in the vicinity of showers and thunderstorms.

The public is advised to continue monitoring the radio for further advisories and to avoid areas

that are at risk from flooding and landslides. Also, take the following precautions in the event of

heavy rains:

1. Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide on likely evacuation

routes now.

2. Avoid flooded waterways, i.e. Fording, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.

The ODPEM will continue to monitor the situation and further updates will be provided as the

situation demands.

Contact: Kimberley Weller, Information Officer kweller@odpem.org.jm