KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Meteorological (Met) Service says the tropical storm watch which was issued for Jamaica earlier today remains in effect as the strong tropical wave over the central Caribbean continues to move closer to the island and shows signs of developing into a tropical storm.

In fact, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Meteorological Services Division have called a joint press conference for 2:00 pm today to discuss the approaching tropical wave and Jamaica’s level of preparedness.

The Met Service says a tropical storm watch means that tropical storm conditions pose a possible threat to Jamaica within 48 hours.

Heavy showers and thunderstorms associated with the tropical wave now span a distance of over 500 kilometres (300 miles) and is located just south of Hispaniola and the Mona Passage, the Met Service said.

According to the Met Service, reliable estimations indicate that the tropical wave is expected to be classified as a tropical storm later today.

“All small craft operators including fishers from the cays and banks should be arriving in port to start preparations for safe harbour at this time.

“As the wave moves toward Jamaica, locally, heavy rains, thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected to reach Jamaica later today. Flash flooding is, therefore, likely to spread across the island tonight and Tuesday, especially over low-lying areas of southern parishes,” the Met Service said in a news release a short while ago.

The Meteorological Service continues to monitor the progress of the tropical wave.