分类： society

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) has issued a stern warning to residents, particularly those living along the coastline, to prepare for potentially life-threatening storm surges as Hurricane Melissa approaches the island. The storm surges could reach staggering heights of up to 15 feet, posing a significant threat to coastal communities.

As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus who are staying on-site during the storm have been equipped with essential supplies. On Sunday, a collaborative effort by the Bellbaten Foundation, Fyahman Entertainment, The UWI Mona Guild, and Romeich Entertainment ensured that students received critical items such as canned meats, fish, toiletries, snacks, and bottled water. A representative from the UWI Mona Guild emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating, ‘We partnered to ensure that students who cannot return home are fully supported during this challenging period. We visited all campus halls to distribute the products.’ Students were seen posing with trays of Ramen, cup noodles, and cases of bottled water as the nation braces for the hurricane, which is predicted to bring intense rainfall, storm surges, and landslides. The collective effort highlights the community’s commitment to safeguarding students during this natural disaster.

As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has issued a stark warning to residents in flood-prone and vulnerable areas, signaling that mandatory evacuation orders are imminent. The Category 1 hurricane, expected to make landfall between Monday and Tuesday, is projected to bring heavy winds and torrential rainfall, lingering over the island for several days. Port Royal, a historic seafaring town notorious for its residents’ refusal to evacuate during past storms, remains a top concern for authorities. McKenzie emphasized the gravity of the situation during a special Jamaica House media briefing on Saturday, urging residents to act swiftly to ensure their safety. He referenced the Bible, stating, “God helps those who help themselves,” in a bid to counter the common belief that Jamaica is divinely protected from natural disasters. The minister also revealed that he has written to Prime Minister Andrew Holness, recommending the declaration of Jamaica as a “threatened area” under the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA). This designation paves the way for compulsory evacuations in high-risk zones such as Rocky Point, Taylor Land, New Haven, and Riverton City. McKenzie appealed to residents to relocate voluntarily, warning that first responders’ lives would be endangered if people refused to move. The government has already begun relocating vulnerable populations, including residents of three infirmaries and the homeless, to safer accommodations. Relief supplies are being prepositioned, and a team from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency is assisting with communication and on-ground support. Prime Minister Holness echoed McKenzie’s concerns, emphasizing that the entire island will be impacted by Melissa’s wide-reaching outer bands. He urged Jamaicans to prepare for prolonged rainfall, strong winds, and potential power outages, while also safeguarding essential documents. Holness acknowledged the limitations of government resources, stating that while supplies are being distributed, not all those in need will be reached. Churches, Members of Parliament, and first responders will assist in the distribution efforts. The prime minister also called on parents to keep their children calm and safe during the storm. As Jamaica braces for Hurricane Melissa, the government’s message is clear: preparedness and cooperation are essential to minimize the storm’s devastating impact.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In anticipation of Hurricane Melissa, Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby has announced a significant escalation in efforts to relocate homeless individuals and residents from flood-prone areas to designated shelters. The municipality has already moved 17 homeless people to shelters across Kingston and St. Andrew, with 15 individuals taken to the Church Street shelter and three women relocated to the Hanover Street facility. These individuals are being provided with essential services, including bathing facilities, clothing, and meals.

As Hurricane Melissa looms over Jamaica, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie has issued a stern warning to construction operators across the nation. The hurricane, expected to intensify with wind speeds exceeding 130 miles per hour (209 kilometers per hour), poses a significant threat to the island, with projections indicating prolonged rainfall lasting at least two days. During a special media briefing at Jamaica House on Saturday, McKenzie emphasized the urgent need to secure loose equipment and materials on construction sites to mitigate potential hazards. His appeal comes after a morning inspection revealed numerous sites in the Corporate Area where materials such as sand, gravel, steel, and even cranes were left unsecured. McKenzie urged operators nationwide to take immediate action to remove or secure these items, warning that unsecured materials could block drains, exacerbate flooding, and cause severe damage to property and lives. Additionally, he called for the temporary removal of advertising billboards, which could become dangerous projectiles in the hurricane’s strong winds. McKenzie also warned that abandoned vehicles on roadsides would be removed and disposed of to prevent them from becoming hazards. ‘We cannot afford to create missiles that will harm people during this period,’ he stated, appealing for cooperation from all stakeholders. The government’s proactive measures aim to minimize the hurricane’s impact and safeguard the population as Jamaica braces for the storm’s arrival.

MANCHESTER, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa intensifies into a Category 4 storm, local authorities in the Alligator Pond division are urging residents to evacuate to safer grounds. Councillor Omar Robinson, who oversees the area, reported that the coastal village is already experiencing rising sea levels, signaling the imminent threat of the hurricane. ‘The waves are climbing higher as I speak,’ Robinson stated during a telephone interview on Sunday. He confirmed that the Parish Disaster Manager, Keval Lewis, and local police have issued an evacuation order for the region. Robinson emphasized the urgency, noting that Hurricane Melissa is expected to make landfall near Alligator Pond, bringing potentially devastating impacts. The New Forest High School has been designated as a shelter, though it is nearing capacity. Robinson and his team are working to clear nearby swamps to mitigate flooding risks. He has implored residents and fisherfolk to move to higher ground, stressing the importance of safety. Many in the community are taking the storm seriously, with fisherfolk securing their boats and residents reinforcing their homes. One fisherman, in his 30s, shared that this is the first time he has prepared so thoroughly for a hurricane, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Hurricane Melissa has already claimed three lives in Haiti, where heavy rains and landslides have caused widespread destruction. As the storm continues its slow but deadly path through the Caribbean, Jamaica remains on high alert, hoping for the best while preparing for the worst.

In response to the escalating threat posed by Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) has announced the suspension of all road operations effective midday Sunday. This decision was reached after thorough consultations with relevant authorities and is grounded in critical safety and operational concerns.

PORTLAND, Jamaica—Authorities have issued a public advisory following a landslide in the Birnamwood district of Portland, which has left a section of the area completely inaccessible. The incident, involving falling boulders and debris from the hills, has prompted the police to urge motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the hazardous zone. While no injuries or casualties have been reported, the situation has raised concerns about safety and mobility in the affected region. The police have assured the public that further updates will be provided as the situation evolves. Residents and travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments.