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Jamaicans are being urged to brace for possible tropical storm conditions later this week as the Meteorological Service has issued a Severe Weather Alert, effective until 6:oo a.m. on Wednesday.

According to the Met Service, a tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea has developed into a broad area of low pressure, which has become better organised while moving closer to the island. The system has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone near Jamaica.

Satellite, radar, and surface observations show that the area of low pressure is becoming better defined, with winds near 72 kilometres per hour, though it still lacks a clear centre.

Forecasters say conditions are becoming more favourable for development, and a tropical storm is expected to form later today as the system drifts over the central Caribbean.

When it nears Jamaica, the system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds, mainly over eastern and southern parishes on Wednesday and Thursday, with rain possibly continuing into the weekend.

For marine areas, the forecast includes widespread showers and thunderstorms, sometimes heavy, along with strong gusty winds across all zones. Fishers on the cays and banks are urged to finish preparations and stay alert to evacuate if necessary.

The Met Service says it is closely monitoring the system and is urging all Jamaicans to pay attention to further updates.

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