A severe weather alert is in effect for the country.

The Meteorological Service says its in effect until 5 P.M. on Thursday.

Duty Forecaster Tahj Edwards says the Met Office has been monitoring a strong tropical wave across the Southeastern Caribbean sea.

It is becoming better organized as it moves westward.

Conditions are expected to be more favourable for tropical depression or tropical storm development in the next day or two, while the tropical wave moves across the central Caribbean.

Fishers and small craft operators, especially over southern waters, should be on the alert for deteriorating sea conditions, including thunderstorms and strong, gusty winds, on Wednesday and continuing through the week.

Residents should also expect periods of heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds across sections of the island starting on Wednesday afternoon and continuing into the weekend.

Fishers on the cays and banks are advised to commence preparations with a view to evacuation, should it become necessary.

The Meteorological Service continues to closely monitor the progress of this tropical wave, and all interests are encouraged to pay special attention to further releases.