标签： Jamaica

As Jamaica embarks on its recovery journey following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, a leading property expert is calling on homeowners and contractors to seize this opportunity to fortify roof structures during repair efforts. Kerry Scott, Head of Real Estate and Properties at JN Properties, emphasizes that rebuilding presents a critical window to elevate construction standards and enhance the long-term durability of roofs. ‘While many are focused on replacing what was lost, this is the moment to build stronger,’ Scott stated. He advises that repairs to zinc roofs should include tightening fasteners and adding hurricane straps to bolster a home’s resilience against future storms. Scott, whose firm oversees more than 130 properties across Jamaica, underscores that a roof’s strength hinges on its design, material quality, and maintenance. Roofs constructed with hurricane-rated materials and reinforced connections between the roof and walls are far more likely to withstand extreme weather. ‘Secure truss connections and hurricane straps distribute wind forces evenly, reducing the risk of uplift. Proper installation of these elements significantly increases the roof’s chances of remaining intact under intense pressure,’ Scott explained. He also stressed the importance of regular inspections and maintenance, noting that seemingly minor issues like leaks or lifted sheets can escalate into major vulnerabilities during storms. Scott urged homeowners to address both visible damage and hidden weaknesses caused by the hurricane’s stress. Despite some roofs surviving the recent hurricane, Scott warned against complacency. ‘Even if a roof remains intact, strong winds can loosen connections or create hairline cracks. Professional inspections can identify these issues before they become costly or dangerous,’ he advised. Material choice is another critical factor, with galvanized steel, concrete tiles, and modern composites offering superior durability. Scott highlighted that lightweight or deteriorated materials are more susceptible to being blown away, urging homeowners to invest in high wind-resistant options installed by qualified professionals. For those considering long-term upgrades, Scott recommended concrete slab roofs, which provide added protection despite higher costs and maintenance requirements. ‘A well-constructed concrete roof can endure hurricane-force winds and even serve as a foundation for an upper floor. However, proper waterproofing and crack inspections are essential to prevent leaks and structural damage,’ he added. Verna McBean, a retired teacher from St. Elizabeth, shared her experience of transitioning to a concrete slab roof after losing her zinc roof during Hurricanes Ivan and Dean. ‘The house would have been destroyed if we had reinstalled the metal roof,’ McBean said, reflecting on Hurricane Melissa. Initially hesitant, she now feels secure and relaxed, noting that several neighbors have also adopted slab roofs. With Jamaica situated in a hurricane-prone region, Scott emphasized that reinforced roofing should be a national priority. ‘A sturdy roof not only reduces losses but also safeguards lives and livelihoods when the next hurricane strikes,’ he concluded.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of Technology (UTech) has ramped up recovery initiatives at its western campus in Montego Bay following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa across western Jamaica. The hurricane inflicted widespread damage, leaving many students and staff grappling with personal losses, including property destruction and, tragically, the loss of loved ones. The western campus, which accommodates approximately 500 students across two locations—Barnett Street, home to the Caribbean School of Nursing, and Dome Street, offering programs in business administration, nursing, public health, computer information systems, law, and professional development—was severely impacted. In the aftermath, UTech conducted comprehensive assessments across all campuses before resuming academic activities. UTech President Dr. Kevin Brown emphasized the institution’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its community. “Our western campus family has demonstrated remarkable resilience during this challenging period,” Dr. Brown stated in a press release. “Despite the significant setbacks, our priority remains ensuring that every affected student and staff member has access to essential resources, including food, shelter, connectivity, and emotional support through our counselling and chaplaincy services.” The Dome Street campus, which experienced severe flooding, underwent extensive cleaning and partial repairs, reopening on November 10 with generator power until electricity was restored the following week. Water was supplied from on-site tanks, and a Starlink system was installed to ensure uninterrupted internet access. However, the Barnett Street campus remains closed due to extensive structural damage, including roof failure and water intrusion, with repairs ongoing to meet safety standards. Dr. Brown highlighted the expanded support provided through the Student Welfare, Counselling, and Chaplaincy units, including options for affected students to withdraw from classes without academic or financial penalties, special grants, fee waivers, and care packages. Western Campus Coordinator Antoinette Smith expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from staff, volunteers, and the broader community, which has been instrumental in the recovery efforts. A university delegation visited the campus on November 5 to distribute essential supplies, including bottled water and generators, as part of the relief operations coordinated by the university’s Emergency Operations Centre. Additional support continues through staff initiatives and ongoing care-package distribution. Dr. Brown called for sustained assistance from partners, alumni, and friends, emphasizing the collective effort required to rebuild and restore the western campus. “We cannot do this alone,” he said. “Every act of generosity, whether in cash or kind, helps our students and staff recover and return to learning.”

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a proactive move to support communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa, McKay Security Limited has collaborated with local councillors to ensure the transparent distribution of high-quality tarpaulins to affected residents in St Elizabeth and Westmoreland. Drawing inspiration from international aid organizations like USAID, McKay Security has taken additional measures to safeguard the integrity of the relief process. Each tarpaulin unit has been labeled ‘Not For Sale’ to prevent any potential misuse or corruption. Jason McKay, CEO of McKay Security, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘While we are confident in the councillors’ commitment to equitable distribution, we want to make it clear that these donations are strictly for relief purposes and should not be monetized in any form.’ Since Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact, which left hundreds homeless across St Elizabeth, St James, Hanover, and Trelawny, McKay Security has distributed 230 heavy-duty tarpaulins. The majority of these supplies have been allocated to South West St Elizabeth, with 80 tarpaulins delivered to Black River. Councillor Amorkard Brown of the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation is set to receive an additional 100 units for further distribution. McKay highlighted the company’s broader mission, noting, ‘Though our headquarters in Kingston was largely unaffected, many of our security guards and clients’ employees have been severely displaced. This effort is part of our commitment to alleviating the homeless crisis in these parishes.’

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting data controllers grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Bobique Brown, the Communication and International Relations Manager at the OIC, emphasized the agency’s readiness to offer guidance on temporary safeguards and practical measures to ensure the protection of personal data during this challenging recovery period. Brown highlighted the extensive damage to physical infrastructure and technological systems across both public and private sectors, which has led to service interruptions and reduced operational capacity. She stressed the heightened risks of personal data exposure or misuse during such disruptions, urging data controllers to prioritize privacy protection as a demonstration of respect, especially for vulnerable individuals. Brown also reminded controllers of their obligations under the Data Protection Act, emphasizing that compliance, even in adverse times, reassures data subjects of their best interests. The OIC has set a deadline for the 2024/2025 registration year, ending on November 30, 2025, with the new registration year commencing on December 1, 2025. Data controllers unaffected by the hurricane are encouraged to begin the registration process promptly, while those impacted are urged to register as soon as possible. For further assistance, data controllers can contact the OIC at info@oic.gov.jm or 876-929-8568.