Flash Flood Watch in Effect for Eastern and Central Parishes

The Meteorological Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for low-lying and flood-prone areas of St. Thomas, St. Mary, Portland, Kingston and St Andrew, St Catherine and Clarendon effective until 5:00 p.m. Thursday.

As the remnants of Tropical Wave Chantal moves across Jamaica, The Meteorological Service reported that satellite imagery and radar reports indicate that moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms have been affecting sections of most eastern and some central parishes since Wednesday night. The forecast is for cloudy conditions with outbreaks of showers and thunderstorms to continue throughout the day.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is advising the public to continue monitoring the radio and television 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 and flooding:

1. If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately and if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas, decide on likely evacuation routes now.

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

3. If trapped in a house by rising water move to second floor and or to the roof if necessary.

4. Do not go sightseeing in flooded areas

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

[Press Release: Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management]