KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued a flash flood warning for flood-prone areas of St Mary, Portland, St Thomas, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine and Clarendon.

Meanwhile, a flash flood watch is also in effect for similar areas of Manchester, St Elizabeth and Westmoreland.

According to the Met Service, a fash 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.

The warnings will remain in effect until 5:00 am on Monday.

Tropical Storm Ian is currently located near 15.0 degrees north and 79.4 degrees west, or 390 kilometres south-southwest of Negril Point, Jamaica. Ian is expected to move southwest of Jamaica today and be across the northwestern Caribbean by Monday. Its outer bands have been producing adverse weather conditions across Jamaica since yesterday afternoon.