ISSUED ON: Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at 10:00 a.m.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has been advised by the Meteorological Service of Jamaica that a Flash Flood Warning is now in effect for low-lying and flood-prone areas of Jamaica’s eastern and central parishes. This Flash Flood Warning is in effect until 5:00 p.m. today.

A Flash Flood Warning means that flooding has been reported or will occur shortly. Residents are advised to be on the look-out for fast rising waters and to take precautionary action if this is observed. Motorists and pedestrians are advised not to attempt to cross fording, flooded streets or other flooded areas.

This Flash Flood Warning is as a result of a surface to mid-level trough in the vicinity of the island, which has been producing moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms mainly over eastern and central parishes throughout last night. It is expected that as the trough moves westward today the rainfall activity will spread to western parishes.

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:
 

• Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide on likely evacuation routes now. Plan to stay with family or friends in safer areas or in a public shelter and move to safety.
• Avoid flooded waterways, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.

Fishers and other marine interests must exercise caution due to deteriorating sea conditions in the vicinity of showers and thunderstorms, over both inshore and offshore areas.

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

Contact: Kerry-Ann Morris, Information Officer