Flash flood watch, warning remain for several parishes

The Meteorological Service says a flash flood warning remains in effect for low-lying and flood-prone areas of St Ann, St Mary, Portland, St Thomas, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon and Manchester.

At the same time, a flash flood watch in force for low-lying and flood-prone areas of Hanover, St James, Trelawny, Westmoreland and St Elizabeth until 5 a.m Thursday.

The Met Service says the weather is being influenced by a trough which is expected to remain in the vicinity of Jamaica for the next two days and will continue to affect the island.

Satellite imagery and radar reports indicate that light to moderate showers affected most parishes, especially sections of northern and southwestern parishes Wednesday.

IN PHOTO: Residents of Douglas Castle in Clarendon walk through flood waters in their communities - Ian Allen

Showers and thunderstorms may be heavy at times in all parishes, especially those in the north and south east until Friday.

Additionally, the Met Service says an area of unstable weather currently just west of Jamaica could spread rainfall activity across western parishes Wednesday night.

Flash flooding is therefore imminent or possible over some low-lying and flood-prone areas of Jamaica.

A FLASH FLOOD WARNING
This means flooding has been reported or will occur shortly. Motorists and pedestrians should not attempt to cross flooded roadways or other low-lying areas as strong currents are likely. Residents in low-lying areas should be on the alert for rising waters and be ready to move quickly to higher ground.

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH
This means that flash flooding is possible and residents are advised to take precautionary measures, keep informed by listening to further releases from the Meteorological Service and be ready for quick action if flooding is observed or if a warning is issued.