The National Meteorological Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for low-lying areas in eight parishes, effective immediately until 5:00pm Wednesday, June 10.

The eight parishes are Kingston, St. Andrew, St, Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, Westmoreland and St. Thomas. An active tropical wave is currently moving across Jamaica and is interacting with an upper-level trough.

This will produce unstable weather until late Wednesday afternoon. The forecast is for periods of showers and thunderstorms, which may be heavy at times, to affect the island, especially across southern parishes throughout the period. 

Warning to fishers and other marine interests

Additionally, strong gusty winds are expected, especially across southern coastal areas and offshore the south coast. Fishermen and other marine interests, especially along the south coast, should exercise extreme caution, as sea conditions will deteriorate in the vicinity of showers, thunderstorms and strong gusty winds.

A flash flood watch means flooding is possible, and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, keep informed by listening to further news releases from the National Met Service and be ready for quick action if flooding is observed or if a warning is issued. The met service will continue to monitor this system.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Holness is urging all Jamaicans, particularly those living in low-lying and flood-prone areas across the southern parishes, to remain vigilant as a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

Prime Minister’s appeal

He is advising them to take the necessary precautions, stay informed by following updates from the Met Service, and be prepared to act quickly if conditions worsen or a warning is issued.

In a post on his Facebook page, Holness encourages, “fishers and persons with interests along the south coast to exercise extreme caution, as rough weather conditions, including heavy showers, thunderstorms, and strong gusty winds, are expected. Your safety and the safety of your loved ones must remain the priority. Stay alert, stay prepared, and continue to monitor official advisories.”