Jamaica on hurricane alert

A tropical storm is picking up speed and heading for Jamaica.

Iris, is expected to reach hurricane strength by the end of the day.

Jamaicans are being told to watch weather bulletins for any change in conditions.

Meteorologists warn Iris could hit the Jamaican coast tonight, reports said.

Fishermen have been put on alert ready to evacuate at short notice.

It is the second time the country has been placed on storm watch in recent weeks.

Tropical Storm Chantal threatened the island in August, but eventually lost strength and did little damage.