KINGSTON, Jamaica – The tropical storm watch that was earlier issued for Jamaica has now been upgraded to a warning as tropical storm conditions, including possible sustained wind speeds of 63-118 km/h, are expected to affect the island in 36 hours or less.

The Meteorological Service said in a news release a short while ago that the strong tropical wave over the central Caribbean has moved within 385 kilometres (240 miles) east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica.

Heavy showers and thunderstorms associated with the tropical wave remain organised and environmental conditions remain conducive for the formation of a tropical storm later today or tonight, the Met Service said.

According to the Met Service, all small craft operators including fishers from the cays and banks should by now have completed all the necessary safety precautions and are advised to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.

Heavy rains, thunderstorms and gusty winds associated with the wave are expected to reach Jamaica this evening and continue through Tuesday.

The Met Service says that flash flooding is, therefore, likely to spread across the island tonight and tomorrow, especially over low-lying areas of southern parishes.