RAINS ASSOCIATED with a strong tropical wave could put a damper on activities over the Independence holidays as remnants of the second tropical depression for the hurricane season move over the island.
The National Meteorological Service said yesterday that it has extended the weather alert for the island as the large area of disturbed weather associated with the tropical wave which is passing over mainland Jamaica, will influence weather conditions causing outbreaks of showers and thunderstorms over sections of the island.
"As the tropical wave continues to move westward, moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms along with strong gusty winds are expected to gradually spread over most sections of the island," the Met Service said.
The Met Service said while present conditions did not favour further development of the system, the tropical wave could reorganise itself into a tropical depression as conditions change.
In the meantime, all small craft operators, including fishers and other marine interests are being warned to exercise extreme caution as sea conditions will become increasingly unstable as the system remains in the area. Wind speeds are expected to reach near gale force at 28 to 33 knots in the vicinity of thunderstorms.
