KINGSTON, Jamaica — As heavy rains continue to lash the island from Tropical Storm Rafael, the National Works Agency (NWA) is reporting that a number of roads have been blocked due to flooding and landslides.

According to the NWA, the Tinson Pen Drain at the bridge in the proximity of Marcus Garvey Drive in St Andrew is now impassable as the area has been blocked by garbage.

In St Catherine, a landslide has resulted in the Guys Hill on the Tavern Hill to Vanity Fair main road being completely blocked. Citizens are urged not to venture into the area at this time. The ford after passing Old Troja at the main road in Troja in the parish is also impassable due to flooding. Meanwhile, the Spanish Town to Bogwalk via Bogwalk Gorge has been closed, and persons are being warned to not travel into the area.

Also, several roads in Manchester have been severely flooded and motorists and pedestrians alike have been urged to exercise caution while traveling.

In the meantime, a tropical storm warning which has been in effect for the island over the past 48 hours, is expected to be discontinued at noon as the weather system continues to move further away from the island. In its latest bulletin, the Meteorological Service of Jamaica said rainy conditions are expected to continue across the island throughout the day, however, Tropical Storm Rafael is expected to be making its way towards the Cayman Islands.

As more rainfall is expected however, a flash flood watch has been put in place for Jamaica until 5:00 pm on Tuesday. Strong gusts are still expected to affect the island as a result of the storm’s outer bands.

Fisherfolk are therefore being reminded to stay in harbor until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions return to normal.