Tropical wave expected to bring rainfall to Jamaica

By Kimone Witter  

 

 

Jamaica is expected to get some relief from the heat and drought conditions early next week when a strong Tropical Wave is forecast to bring much needed rainfall.

 

Evan Thompson, Principal Director of the Meteorological Service, said forecasters are monitoring two Tropical Waves that are moving across the Atlantic Ocean and closer to the Caribbean region.

 

Mr. Thompson said one of the systems is showing signs of potential for development, and should move pass Jamaica.

 

"Looks like it could likely become a tropical depression in the next 24 or so hours and so we continue to monitor as it moves closer to the region. What is expected is that it will continue to strengthen for a short period, but as it enters the Caribbean region on the weekend, we are expecting that some weakening will take place. It is likely that the system will pass by Jamaica by Monday of next week and that it will produce some rainfall, some well-needed rainfall over sections of the country. But we are not expecting that it will be a tropical depression, tropical storm or hurricane at that time," he noted.

 

The government has served notice that come Monday, August 17, water prohibition orders will be in effect in seven parishes as the country continues to experience worsening drought conditions.

 

Under the prohibition orders, National Water Commission customers will not be allowed to use piped water for non-essential or unusual purposes.