KINGSTON , Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued flash flood advisories for sections of the island. 

A Flash Flood Warning is currently in place for low-lying and flood-prone areas of Clarendon, St Catherine, Kingston and St Andrew, and St Thomas, while a Flash Flood Watch has been issued for areas in St Ann, St Mary, and Portland.

The flood watch and warning will remain in effect until 5:00 pm today.

Met Service said the flood advisories were issued as a broad Trough across Jamaica and the central Caribbean continues to produce unstable weather conditions across sections of the island.

Satellite imagery and rainfall data indicate light to moderate showers have been affecting sections of southern parishes with the greatest intensity being recorded over south central parishes, according to the weather authority.

Projections are for periods of showers and thunderstorms which could be heavy at times to continue this afternoon into evening with the greatest intensity over eastern and central parishes. Flash flooding is therefore likely across sections of southeastern and southcentral parishes.

A Flash Flood Warning 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 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.