Flash flood warning in effect for eastern parishes

KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has upgraded a flash flood watch to a flash flood warning for low-lying and flood-prone areas of St Mary, Portland, St Thomas, Kingston and St Andrew. The flash flood watch is maintained for St Ann, St Catherine and Clarendon until Saturday, October 24, 2026. According to the MetService, a broad trough across the western Caribbean continues to produce unstable weather across Jamaica. It said satellite and radar reports indicate that moderate, and at times heavy, showers and thunderstorms have been affecting sections of most parishes throughout today but especially across eastern and central parishes. The forecast is for intermittent showers and thunderstorms to continue affecting primarily eastern parishes through to Sunday evening, which could result in flash flooding. Additionally, due to the increased soil saturation, landslides are likely, especially across eastern parishes. Sea conditions will continue deteriorating in the vicinity of showers and thunderstorms. Fishers and other marine interests, especially inshore and offshore the south coast, should therefore exercise caution. 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.