Flood alert

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) said its disaster committees have been put on alert following an expectation of heavy rains that could cause flooding on the weekend.

In a release from Kerry-Ann Morris, information officer for ODPEM, the agency said that it has been advised that there could be heavy rains on the weekend. "The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has been advised by the Meteorological Service that a strong tropical wave east of the island is moving closer to Jamaica and is expected to influence weather conditions this weekend," the release said.

The agency said the system is expected to move westward across Jamaica by this morning and continue to influence conditions across the island throughout the weekend.

"Consequently, the island is expected to experience periods of showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds, first affecting eastern parishes tonight, then spread quickly to other parishes through Saturday. Showers could sometimes be heavy and there is the potential for flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas," the release said.

flood-prone areas

ODPEM said the public should continue to monitor the radio for further advisories and to avoid areas that are at risk from flooding and landslides. It is also encouraging the public to 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," the release said.

In addition, the agency suggests that people avoid flooded waterways, gullies, streams or rivers whether they are on foot or in vehicles.

ODPEM said all Parish Disaster Committees have been alerted and will be monitoring the situation in each parish. The Meteorological Service and ODPEM will continue to keep an eye on the state of affairs and further updates will be provided as it demands.