KINGSTON, Jamaica – An upcoming weather system predicted to strengthen into a tropical depression is expected to bring tropical storm-like conditions to Jamaica within the next 24 hours.

That’s why a storm warning is still in effect for the country.

According to the Jamaica Meteorological Service (Met Service), Potential Tropical Cyclone Number 18 was approximately 355 kilometers (220 miles) south of Kingston or 410 kilometers (255 miles) southeast of Negril Point, Jamaica, at 7:00 a.m.

The disturbance continues to move northwards at around 11 km/h (7 mph), the Met Service said. A turn towards the northwest is expected later on Monday and is expected to continue in that direction over the next few days, he added.

Maximum sustained winds are around 55 km/h (35 mph) with higher gusts. This system is expected to develop into a tropical depression or tropical storm on Monday, with additional strengthening forecast thereafter.

In line with the forecast, the disturbance is expected to continue moving toward Jamaica by Monday night and be near Jamaica by late Monday evening or early Tuesday morning and near or over the Cayman Islands from Tuesday through Wednesday.

The potential tropical cyclone is around Jamaica but is expected to produce heavy rainfall and strong, gusty winds on Monday and Tuesday, mainly in the eastern and southern regions, the Met Service said.

Landslides should also be expected in sensitive areas of the island.

The forecast for maritime areas is for mostly cloudy weather, widespread showers and thunderstorms, strong winds that may be gusty at times, and strong winds up to tropical storm strength to affect all maritime areas on Monday, especially the inland and offshore areas of the south coast.

The Met Service has warned all small boat operators, including tea and coastal fishermen, to now be in port and complete the necessary safety measures without delay.