Jamaica PM orders national emergency systems to mobilise as rain continues

The prime minister of Jamaica has ordered the activation of all national emergency systems as heavy rainfall continues to lash sections of the island.

The Andrew Holness, who is overseas at present, says all the agencies should mobilise their resources to deal with the impact of the extraordinary rain event and to support residents who may need assistance in flooded areas.

The emergency agencies include the National Works Agency (NWA) and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), as well as local representatives.

People should be on high alert as rain is predicted to continue throughout the day, Holness added.

Member of parliament Horace Chang, minister of water, environment and housing, had been due to make a statement to Parliament this afternoon on the active emergency processes as well as reporting any damage.

However this was later cancelled.

A flash flood warning is still in affect for low-lying and flood-prone areas of Jamaica.

The National Meteorological Service issued the warning for the parishes of St Mary, Portland, St Thomas, Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, St Elizabeth and Westmoreland.

A flash flood watch also remains in effect for low-lying and flood-prone areas of Hanover, St James, Trelawny, and St Ann.