KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has announced comprehensive preparations to mitigate the potential effects of Tropical Storm Melissa. Emphasizing the safety and welfare of its citizens, the ministry has implemented a coordinated response strategy across all 14 parishes. Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that no individual is overlooked during disaster scenarios. He stated, ‘Our teams are fully prepared, equipped, and mobilized to address any needs that may arise.’
In preparation for the storm, all parish offices have been activated and are ready to handle emergencies. The Humanitarian Assistance Committee (HAC) has convened to finalize coordination among essential partners, while training sessions on the Jamaica Household Disaster Impact Needs Assessment (JHDINA) Lite tool are ongoing. Preemptive measures include the distribution of care packages and supplies to the parishes of St Thomas, Portland, and St Mary. Additionally, the ministry has bolstered its communication systems, ensuring swift contact with field officers through a Closed User Group (CUG) network, with each parish manager, administrator, and social worker assigned a mobile phone.
Minister Charles Jr. reassured the public, stating, ‘All mechanisms are in place to provide effective and timely assistance to those affected.’ The ministry is also collaborating with telecommunications partner Starlink to enhance connectivity during and after the storm. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, stay informed, and adhere to local authorities’ instructions as Jamaica braces for potential severe weather conditions associated with Tropical Storm Melissa.