分类： society

KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, expected to make landfall between Monday evening and Tuesday, one Port Royal resident has firmly decided to remain in his seaside community rather than seek refuge in a shelter. Roy Brown, in an interview with Observer Online on Monday, expressed his reluctance to evacuate, citing past traumatic experiences during Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Brown recounted how residents who sought shelter at the National Arena faced severe hardships, including theft, harassment, and the absence of transportation back home after the storm passed. He emphasized that he would rather face the hurricane’s wrath than endure similar conditions again. Brown’s defiance reflects a broader sentiment among some residents who feel safer staying put, despite the potential dangers of the approaching storm. His statement, ‘I don’t believe I can run from death,’ underscores his resolve to weather the storm at home, regardless of its intensity.

Jamaica’s efforts to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa are being severely hampered by criminal activities targeting critical infrastructure. Local utility companies, including major telecommunications providers, have reported significant thefts of essential equipment and resources, which are delaying the restoration of services across the island.

Residents of Cassia Park in Kingston, Jamaica, are raising urgent concerns about a deteriorating breakaway in the Sandy Gully, which they fear could endanger their homes as Hurricane Melissa approaches. The issue first emerged during Hurricane Beryl last year and has since worsened, leaving the community vulnerable to potential landslides and property damage. Despite repeated appeals to local authorities, including Member of Parliament Dennis Gordon, no substantial action has been taken to address the problem. Residents emphasize that their homes comply with building codes and are situated at a safe distance from the gully. However, the erosion caused by the breakaway has destabilized the hillside, putting their properties at risk. With Hurricane Melissa imminent, frustration and anxiety are mounting among residents, who feel neglected by their elected representatives. Efforts to seek assistance from government agencies, such as the Ministry of Local Government and the National Works Agency, have yielded no tangible results. The community now faces the grim possibility of losing their homes and livelihoods due to the lack of intervention.

As Hurricane Melissa, now projected to make landfall on Tuesday, approaches Jamaica, the island’s major utility providers have warned that the storm’s intensity could lead to unprecedented damage, potentially requiring extensive rebuilding rather than mere restoration. Speaking at a joint media briefing on Sunday, Hugh Grant, CEO of the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), emphasized the severity of the situation. ‘A Category Four hurricane passing through the island could cause unprecedented damage to our facilities. At JPS, we’re likely looking at a rebuild, not just a restoration,’ Grant stated. He added that the company has bolstered preparations by securing additional resources, including bucket trucks, crane trucks, and overseas line workers, to ensure a swift and safe response post-storm. Grant also urged the public to exercise patience during potential service disruptions, acknowledging the inconvenience but stressing the importance of safety. Meanwhile, telecom providers Flow and Digicel have also ramped up their readiness. Stephen Price, Flow’s vice-president and general manager, highlighted the vulnerability of their infrastructure to the storm’s intensity, noting that some areas may require rebuilding. Digicel’s CEO, Stephen Murad, appealed to Jamaicans to protect critical infrastructure, citing past incidents of theft and vandalism that hampered recovery efforts. The National Water Commission (NWC) and the National Works Agency (NWA) have also mobilized to maintain essential services and clear roads, though disruptions are inevitable. With predictions of extreme flooding and landslides, Jamaica’s utility providers and emergency services are on high alert, preparing for the worst while urging public cooperation and patience.

In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa’s arrival, security forces in Norwood, St James, have proactively relocated some of their operational infrastructure. The site, previously occupying a community playfield as part of the Zones of Special Operation initiative, now appears significantly less populated, with only a few structures remaining. The removed buildings primarily consisted of tents that had been utilized to accommodate staff. While the exact relocation site remains undisclosed, sources suggest that a base near the airport is the likely destination. This strategic move underscores the authorities’ commitment to safeguarding both personnel and resources in the face of the impending natural disaster.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has issued a stern warning to residents living near Sandy Gully in St. Andrew as Hurricane Melissa approaches the island. During a visit to his constituency, Holness emphasized the potential dangers posed by the storm, particularly in areas adjacent to the gully. Accompanied by Abka Fitz-Henley, chairman of the Jamaica Labour Party’s communication taskforce, the Prime Minister addressed residents in the Waterhouse community, urging them to avoid the gully during the hurricane.

“Stay away from the gully,” Holness cautioned, highlighting a specific section of the community to illustrate the risks. “As you can see what could happen.” Sandy Gully, one of Jamaica’s largest drainage systems, spans approximately six miles, traversing densely populated areas such as Seaview Gardens, Waterhouse, and Riverton City before reaching Kingston Harbour via Hunt’s Bay.

As Hurricane Melissa nears landfall, emergency services across the island are intensifying preparations. Shelters are being activated, and residents are being advised to secure their homes. Authorities have warned of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and strong winds, underscoring the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. The Prime Minister’s visit underscores the government’s proactive measures to mitigate the storm’s impact and protect vulnerable communities.