In a proactive move to combat potential flooding, Councillor Daedre Moulton of the Jamaica Labour Party has announced that the National Works Agency (NWA) is actively clearing critical drains across St Mary Western. This initiative is part of broader flood mitigation efforts in anticipation of severe weather conditions, including heavy rains and strong winds. Moulton emphasized the importance of addressing both major and minor drainage systems in key areas such as Content, Rio Nuevo, Emerald Estate, Jamaica Beach, Prospect, Dry Gully, and ‘Bruk Weh.’ While acknowledging the limitations of disaster preparedness, she urged residents to take necessary precautions and assured them of timely assistance if needed. Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for St Mary Central, Omar Newell, joined NWA teams on the ground to oversee the clearing of debris from major drains. Newell described the efforts as ‘late mitigation work’ and highlighted the need for additional funding to address the escalating severity of the approaching storm, Melissa. He also expressed satisfaction with the NWA’s progress, particularly given the late allocation of resources. Work has already commenced in several areas, including Pagee, Moncrieffe, Hillside Primary, and Gully Road, though long-standing drainage issues remain a challenge.