The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has been advised by the Meteorological Service of Jamaica that the island’s weather will be affected by a surface to mid-level trough, which is now across the eastern Caribbean. This trough is expected to move westward into the central Caribbean and move west of the island by Tuesday.

This will result in an increase in cloudiness with periods of showers and thunderstorms, which may be heavy at times. These conditions are likely to affect most parishes during the period, especially during the afternoons.

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 in the event of heavy rains:

• 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.

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, kmorris@odpem.org.jm