KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) says that contingency plans are in place for Jamaica 50 Jubilee activities and the Denbigh Agriculture Show.

ODPEM said that the plans would be activated if the need arises later today.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Office in its latest briefing said that satellite imagery and aircraft reconnaissance indicate that Ernesto has become poorly organised “due to some hostile atmospheric conditions in the western Caribbean”.  

“Along with the rapid movement toward the west, this is reducing the chance of Jamaica being severely impacted by the tropical storm,” the Met office said at 11:00 am today.

It however added that periods of heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds from outer bands are still possible this afternoon through tonight.  A Tropical Storm warning remains in effect.

As a result of the expected rainfall ODPEM is advising the public that there could be localised flooding along the south coast.

The following precautions are advised :

1 Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide on likely evacuation routes now.

2  Avoid flooded waterways — fordings, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.

3  Avoid driving your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway. The water depth may prevent your vehicle from crossing safely.