KINGSTON, Jamaica — Downtown Kingston was experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds early Tuesday morning as Tropical Storm Rafael moved closer to Jamaica.

According to the latest update from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service), as of 4:00 am, the centre of Tropical Storm Rafael was located approximately 170 kilometres (105 miles) southwest of Kingston, 88 kilometres (55 miles) south of Treasure Beach, and 130 kilometres (80 miles) southeast of Negril Point, Jamaica.

Jamaicans are advised to brace for continued heavy rainfall measuring 75 to 150 millimetres (three to six inches) which is expected across the island on Tuesday, potentially leading to flash flooding in flood-prone areas islandwide.

Higher rainfall amounts are likely in elevated areas and landslides should be anticipated in vulnerable sections of the island. The Met Service also warned of possible coastal flooding and strong gusty winds reaching tropical storm strength.