Heavy rain batters Portland

Heavy rains pounded Portland on Wednesday afternoon leaving several roadways inundated, and shutting down commerce in some areas.

The torrential rainfall, which started at approximately 12:15 p.m. was accompanied by strong gusty winds, thunder and lightning that lasted for several hours. 

A small business operator, Denise Roberts told The Gleaner that the high winds blew items off the shelves and that the heavy rainfall further compounded the situation. 

"It was like a mini hurricane passing through without any warning," she commented. 

"It was very intense and of course the rain came down in bucket loads. Before it was hot and sunny and all of a sudden the place got dark and the next thing a strong wind started blowing. Everyone was wondering was happening. Upon realising what was happening, I decided to close early," she added.

Other small business operators including Christine Brown of Bryan's Bay who operates a corner shop, Marie Hill of Boundbrook who operates a fruit stall, and Tamaria King, a bar operator, were forced to shut down business for the day due to the inclement weather. 

- Gareth Davis

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