SIA JamaicaSangster International Airport.

Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St. James, will close at midday on Sunday as Hurricane Melissa edges closer to Jamaica, threatening heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding across the island.

The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) announced the update Saturday afternoon, explaining that in coordination with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and airport operators, Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston will now close at 9 p.m. Saturday. The new time is one hour later than previously communicated.

The AAJ also confirmed that Ian Fleming International Airport in St. Mary will shut down at 7 p.m., the same schedule that applies to all domestic aerodromes.

Transport Minister Daryl Vaz, speaking earlier Saturday at Jamaica House, said the final scheduled flight into Norman Manley is expected to arrive at 8 p.m. “All flights will be accommodated today at both Norman Manley and Sangster International Airport,” he said. “So, my recommendation for those of you who want to get back to Jamaica or to get out of Jamaica is to try and change your arrangements to get out today.”

He added that discussions are underway between the tourism ministry, airport operators, and airlines to help facilitate departing visitors ahead of the storm.

Meteorologists warn that the slow-moving system could bring days of intense rainfall, triggering flash flooding and landslides in low-lying and mountainous areas.