Flash Flood Watch Now in Effect for All Parishes

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) is advising the public that the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (MSJ) has reported of a flash flood
watch now in effect for all parishes.

The Flash Flood Watch includes low-lying and flood-prone areas of southern and northwestern parishes while extending it to remaining parishes effective until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday.

The large area of threatening weather that has been producing heavy showers and thunderstorms across the western Caribbean including Jamaica has now been classified as Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine.

The disturbance is centered about 397 kilometers west southwest of Jamaica.

The Meteorological Service of Jamaica data indicate that moderate to heavy showers and thunder-storms have been affecting sections of northwestern and southern parishes and will continue to Thursday September 26.

This increases the chance of flash flooding for all parishes and residents should be prepared.

Fishers and other marine interests should exercise caution as sea conditions will deteriorate due to thunderstorms and strong gusty winds.

The ODPEM is advising the public who resides in the low-lying and flood prone areas to take the following precautions especially given the incidents lately of persons being washed away in flood
waters.

• Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood- prone areas. Decide early on evacuation routes.

• Avoid flooded waterways i.e. fords, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicle.

• Ensure that all important documents are secured in plastic bags or waterproof containers.

• Turn off electrical power, gas & water supplies in areas that are in immediate danger of flooding.

• Avoid areas with damaged roadways.

• Avoid areas prone to landslide & flooding.

The public is being asked to continue to monitor the media for further advisories.

The ODPEM is reminding the public that we are still in the Hurricane Season and persons should take the necessary safety precautions as issued by the ODPEM, Metrological Service of Jamaica and other authorities.

The ODPEM will continue to monitor the system and provide the public with further  information.