The nation’s disaster preparedness authorities are engaged in strategic planning meetings, as a tropical storm watch remains in effect for Jamaica.

The Met Office announced the storm watch, in Bulletin Number 1 this morning.

According to international media reports Tropical Storm Melissa has now formed in the Caribbean Sea.

The Met Service says tropical storm conditions could pose a possible threat to Jamaica within 48 hours.

When the system is in the vicinity of Jamaica, it is expected to produce heavy rainfall, strong gusty winds, possibly reaching tropical storm force, primarily over northeastern and southern parishes late Wednesday and Thursday.

The rainfall could continue into the weekend.

For the marine areas, the forecast is for widespread showers and thunderstorms, which may be heavy at times, with strong gusty winds, possibly reaching tropical storm force, to affect all marine zones on Wednesday and Thursday, especially inshore and offshore the south coast.

Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to evacuate immediately and start returning to the mainland.

Other small craft operators in Jamaica’s coastal waters are advised to return to port.
Small craft operators who are in port are advised not to venture out.