Jamaica remains under a tropical storm watch, as tropical storm Melissa moves over the Caribbean sea south of Hispaniola.

This means tropical storm conditions pose a possible threat to Jamaica within 48 hours.

In bulletin number 4, the Met Service said at 4:00 P.M. the centre of tropical storm Melissa was approximately 5 hundred and 35 kilometres southeast of morant point.

Maximum sustained winds are near 85 kilometres per hour.

Gradual strengthening is expected over the next few days.

As the system approaches Jamaica, its expected to bring moderate to heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds, possibly reaching tropical storm strength, particularly across northeastern and southern parishes on Thursday and Friday.

Periods of rainfall could persist into the weekend.

Principal Director of the Met service Evan Thompson said it has been difficult to track the storm.

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, while those in port are advised not to venture out.