标签： Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a proactive move to address potential water disruptions caused by Tropical Storm Melissa, the Jamaican government has readied over 50 triple-phase generators for deployment. These generators aim to restore potable water to 80% of National Water Commission (NWC) customers within 72 hours post-storm. The announcement was made by Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, during a press briefing at Jamaica House on Friday. This initiative follows the lessons learned from Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, which caused significant delays in water restoration for several communities. Additionally, four mobile generators have been rented to support vulnerable areas at risk of prolonged water supply disruptions. Samuda emphasized that this approach marks a significant improvement from previous responses, enabling communities to replenish water storage facilities and stabilize distribution systems. The NWC is collaborating closely with the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to prioritize the restoration of water pumps serving critical infrastructure, including hospitals and detention centers. Furthermore, the ministry is coordinating with municipal corporations and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to ensure water trucking services are promptly delivered to affected areas once the storm has passed.

In a highly contentious execution, Anthony Boyd, a 54-year-old inmate convicted of a brutal 1993 murder, was put to death using nitrogen gas in Alabama on Thursday. Boyd, who consistently claimed innocence, was sentenced in 1995 for the killing of Gregory Huguley, 32, over a $200 drug debt. The execution took place at 6:33 pm Central time at Atmore state prison, marking the 40th execution in the U.S. this year—the highest number since 2012. Prosecutors alleged that Boyd and three accomplices abducted Huguley at gunpoint, bound him with duct tape, doused him in gasoline, and set him ablaze at a baseball field. Boyd’s conviction relied heavily on the testimony of co-defendant Quintay Cox, who avoided the death penalty. Nitrogen hypoxia, the method used, involves suffocating the prisoner by pumping nitrogen gas into a face mask. This method has drawn sharp criticism from UN experts, who deem it cruel and inhumane. While 23 U.S. states have abolished the death penalty, and three others have moratoriums, President Donald Trump has advocated for its expansion, particularly for severe crimes. Alabama, alongside Texas, has executed five inmates this year, trailing Florida’s 14 executions.

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.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Melissa, Scotia Group has announced the early closure of its branches and affiliated offices, including Scotia Insurance, Scotia Investments, and Scotia Protect, at 1:00 pm on Friday. The decision aims to ensure the safety of both staff and customers as severe weather conditions are expected to impact the region.

As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, residents of Burger Gully in Mountain View, St. Andrew, are taking proactive measures to mitigate potential flooding. On Friday, locals were seen stacking sandbags along the gully to reinforce their defenses against the impending storm. Among them is Hyacinth Thomas, a long-time resident who vividly recalls the devastation caused by severe flooding 26 years ago. ‘My house was washed away when the gully burst. We lost two houses and received no compensation. Now, with the gully dug out, even a little rain makes us anxious,’ Thomas shared. She added that recent rainfall has heightened her fears, prompting her to prepare for evacuation if necessary. Another resident, Rennie, echoed her concerns, stating that he has already raised his furniture and packed essentials, ready to move to a nearby shelter or his sister’s home on Windward Road. The community’s collective efforts underscore the urgency of the situation as they brace for the storm’s impact.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — With Tropical Storm Melissa nearing Jamaica, the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) has issued a stern warning to motorists to exercise heightened caution on the roads. Owen Smith, General Manager of the JAA, emphasized the dangers of driving in flood-prone areas and urged drivers to plan their routes carefully to avoid high-risk zones such as Marcus Garvey Drive in the Corporate Area, as well as parts of St. James, St. Elizabeth, Clarendon, and St. Thomas. Smith highlighted that floodwaters pose severe risks, including potential vehicle shutdowns, engine damage, and life-threatening situations for drivers and passengers. He also warned that floodwaters can be deceptive, often hiding debris, potholes, and other hazards. Even one to two feet of water can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs. Smith advised motorists to turn around if they encounter flooded roads and to seek higher ground immediately if their vehicle stalls. Beyond flooding, heavy rainfall reduces visibility and increases stopping distances. Smith recommended using headlights, maintaining extra space between vehicles, and reducing speed by at least a third on wet roads to avoid hydroplaning. He also cautioned against using cruise control during rain, as it can hinder proper deceleration, while traction control should be engaged to enhance stability. In extreme conditions, Smith advised pulling over and waiting for the weather to improve. The JAA remains on standby to assist motorists 24/7, as it did during Hurricane Beryl, but Smith urged drivers to prioritize safety during the storm season.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Theresa Roberts, Jamaica’s Ambassador and Special Investment Envoy for Culture and Arts in the United Kingdom, has been selected to receive the University of the West Indies’ (UWI) Vice-Chancellor’s Award. This prestigious accolade will be presented to her at the 2nd annual UWI London Benefit Dinner, scheduled for November 7, 2025. The event will take place at The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn in the UK, with notable patrons including Sir Lenny Henry, Baroness Floella Benjamin, and Professor Shirley Thompson. Roberts, a distinguished businesswoman and philanthropist, was appointed as one of Jamaica’s four special ambassadors by Prime Minister Andrew in 2023. Her unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements in the cultural and arts sectors have earned her this recognition. The award underscores her significant contributions to promoting Jamaica’s cultural heritage and fostering international collaborations in the arts.