Schools to decide on reopening after flood rains

A number of schools were still unsure if they would reopen today after being forced to close their doors as a result of heavy rains which flooded streets in some parishes yesterday.

The flash-flood watch placed on the island on Sunday had been upgraded to a warning for low-lying and flood-prone areas yesterday before it was shifted back to a watch in the afternoon. That watch was scheduled to remain in effect until 5 o'clock this morning.

Among the schools that ceased activities were St Mary Technical, Mary Mount High and Jonathan Grant in St Catherine.

Grace McLean, chief education officer in the Ministry of Education, said the ministry had taken the decision to close the schools due to internal flooding at the institutions, which would affect operations.

"We don't know if the schools will reopen tomorrow (today)," McLean told The Gleaner. "We are waiting to see if the weather condition in the area changes. We will advise the schools if schools should resume tomorrow and the schools have a way to inform the students."

A flash-flood watch means flooding is possible and citizens are advised to take precautionary measures, keep informed by listening to further news releases from the Meteorological Service and be ready for quick action if flooding is observed or if a warning is issued.

According to the Meteorological Service yesterday afternoon, a broad area of low pressure remained in the vicinity of Jamaica but was moving towards the western Caribbean.

Scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected for most parishes today.