Jamaica under 24-hour flash flood watch

Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine has been producing heavy showers and thunderstorms across the western Caribbean including Jamaica since Sunday morning forcing many schools to close early.

There have been reports of flooding in several flood-prone areas across the country with conditions likely to get worse.

“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,” the Met Service stated in its latest bulletin issued 5:00 pm today.

At the same time the National Hurricane Center has issued storm watch for western Cuba and the Florida Panhandle, as forecasters believe the system is likely to develop into a hurricane later this week.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) is advising persons who reside in low-lying and flood prone areas to take precautions especially given the incidents lately of persons being washed away in flood waters.  

According to the ODPEM person should:

• 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 and water supplies in areas that are in immediate danger of flooding.
• Avoid areas with damaged roadways.
• Avoid areas prone to landslide and flooding.

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 local authorities. 

The ODPEM will continue to monitor the system and provide the public with further information.
Fishers and other marine interests should exercise caution as sea conditions will deteriorate due to thunderstorms and strong gusty winds.