KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) on Tuesday issued a warning to individuals residing in flood prone areas following reports from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica of a strong tropical wave that is expected to move across Jamaica starting Wednesday, through to Friday.

The Met Service said that the tropical wave is expected to bring unstable weather conditions, with showers and thunderstorms expected across eastern and south-central parishes on Wednesday and Thursday.

On Friday, there will be scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms across western parishes and hilly areas.

The ODPEM said that in light of the upcoming weather conditions, it is advising residents in flood prone areas to take the following precautions:

• Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood- prone areas. Decide early on evacuation routes.
• Avoid flooded waterways, that is fords, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.
• Ensure that all important documents are secured in plastic bags or waterproof containers.
• Turn off all electrical power, gas and water supplies in areas that are in immediate danger from flooding.
• Avoid areas with damaged roadways and fallen power lines.
• Avoid areas prone to landslides and flooding.

“The ODPEM is reminding the public that we are still in the Hurricane Season and persons should take necessary safety precautions seriously as issued by the ODPEM, Meteorological Service of Jamaica and other authorities,” a release from the agency said.

It further advised the public to continue monitoring the media and weather authorities for further updates.