As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season approaches its official conclusion, the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) has issued a reminder that the island remains at risk of severe weather events. Although the likelihood of a Category 5 storm like Hurricane Melissa diminishes, the potential for rapid intensification of weaker storms persists. Rohan Brown, manager of weather services at the Met Service, emphasized that even less intense systems could bring heavy rainfall, flash floods, or landslides, causing significant damage. Historically, the peak hurricane activity occurs between August and October, but late-season storms, such as Tropical Storm Odette in December 2003, have occurred. Brown highlighted that warm sea surface temperatures, low wind shear, and an ENSO-neutral climate—conditions that favor storm development—are still present. The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) typically suppresses hurricane activity during strong El Niño phases, but its neutral state this year increases the risk of storms. Brown urged Jamaicans to remain alert, monitor weather advisories, and maintain preparedness until the season officially ends on November 30. He also called for community efforts to clear gullies and strengthen resilience, particularly in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which caused widespread devastation in October 2025. The Category 5 storm, with winds reaching 295 kilometers per hour, resulted in 45 deaths and left many without essential services. Brown’s warnings also recalled the rare formation of Hurricane Alex in January 2016, underscoring the unpredictability of hurricane activity.
标签: Jamaica
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Mediation rejected in simple larceny case, accused to return to court
In a recent development in Kingston, Jamaica, a larceny case has taken an unexpected turn as the complainant refused to engage in mediation. Raheim Tollo, accused of stealing a significant amount of alcohol, beverages, and meat from a local wholesale shop, appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday.
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Gov’t intensifying support for pregnant and lactating women to safeguard mothers and newborns
The Jamaican Government is ramping up its initiatives to bolster maternal and child health, ensuring that pregnant and lactating women receive comprehensive care, essential supplies, and vital guidance for safe pregnancies and the healthy development of newborns. Krystal Lee, State Minister in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, announced these efforts during a handover ceremony for WaterStep Bleach Makers at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) headquarters in New Kingston on Tuesday.
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Construction materials most needed in Trelawny
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Hugh Gentles, the Custos Rotulorum of Trelawny, has called for a strategic shift in relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Gentles emphasized that the immediate priority for the parish is the provision of building materials to aid residents in repairing and reconstructing their homes, which were severely damaged when the hurricane struck southwestern Jamaica on October 28. While the community has expressed gratitude for the initial humanitarian aid, including food, clothing, and care packages, Gentles stressed that the recovery process has now entered a critical phase focused on long-term reconstruction.
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Dunbeholden FC brings hope to Russia, Westmoreland
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a heartfelt display of community solidarity, the Dunbeholden Football Club has stepped up to assist residents in the storm-ravaged western region of Jamaica. On Sunday, club members traveled to Russia, Westmoreland, delivering essential relief supplies to families still recovering from the devastating aftermath of the recent storm. The aid included food packages, water, clothing, shoes, and tarpaulins, addressing immediate needs in the affected area.
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WRA reports groundwater levels in Content, Manchester, slowly receding after flooding
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Water Resources Authority (WRA) has reported a gradual decline in groundwater levels in Content, Manchester, following severe flooding triggered by Hurricane Melissa on October 28. The flooding, caused by significant rainfall before and during the hurricane, has been a major concern for the community. Geoffrey Marshall, Deputy Managing Director of the WRA, confirmed that on-site observations indicate a slow but steady reduction in water levels. However, he warned that the movement of groundwater is causing rising water levels in downstream areas such as Porus and Harmons, as anticipated by the authority. Similar trends have been observed in Comfort Hall and Evergreen. Marshall emphasized that the recession of water in Content could take up to four weeks, longer than the two-week period recorded during a similar event in 2002, due to the greater volume of water involved this time. The WRA has urged residents in affected areas to remain cautious, avoid contact with contaminated floodwaters, and take necessary precautions if their properties are at risk. Marshall also advised against consuming untreated groundwater, stressing the importance of boiling or purifying water before use. The WRA continues to monitor the situation closely and conduct assessments across other communities.
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St Elizabeth hardest hit
Hurricane Melissa has left a trail of destruction across Jamaica, with the parish of St Elizabeth emerging as the hardest-hit region. According to a World Bank assessment, the total physical damage from the hurricane is estimated at a staggering US$8.85 billion, equivalent to 41% of Jamaica’s 2024 GDP. St Elizabeth, along with Westmoreland and St James, accounted for 63% of the total damage, amounting to US$5.5 billion. St Elizabeth alone suffered US$2.29 billion in damages, including US$997.2 million in residential damage, US$389.5 million in non-residential damage, US$763.6 million in infrastructure damage, and US$135.7 million in agricultural losses. St James followed with US$1.82 billion in damages, while Westmoreland recorded US$1.41 billion. The hurricane’s impact extended beyond physical damage, with economic losses from disrupted tourism and sales expected to surpass the physical toll. Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank’s Caribbean Country Director, emphasized the need for a coordinated, long-term recovery strategy involving local institutions, the private sector, and communities. The World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank are supporting Jamaica through financing and technical assistance, including the GRADE methodology, which provides rapid post-disaster damage assessments. Burunciuc highlighted the opportunity to rebuild a more resilient Jamaica, stressing that every dollar spent on reconstruction could yield six dollars in benefits.
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Men fined $30,000 for transporting coconuts without required documentation
In a recent legal proceeding at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court, two individuals, Marlon Gibbeson and Ricardo Hunter, were each fined $30,000 for transporting agricultural produce without the necessary documentation as mandated by the Agricultural Produce Act. The case highlights Jamaica’s stringent measures to combat praedial larceny, a pervasive issue affecting the agricultural sector.
Marlon Gibbeson was apprehended by law enforcement while transporting 1,130 coconuts without a Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) receipt. These receipts, exclusive to registered farmers, serve as proof of sale and ownership and are compulsory when moving agricultural goods. Although Gibbeson later produced the required receipt, Senior Parish Judge Paula Blake Powell emphasized that the law necessitates possession of the receipt during transportation to prevent theft. Consequently, Gibbeson pleaded guilty and was fined.
Ricardo Hunter faced similar charges for transporting 150 coconuts and a quantity of bananas without the requisite receipt. Hunter, unaware of the legal requirement, explained that most of the produce originated from his father’s property. Judge Powell reiterated the Ministry of Agriculture’s intensified efforts to curb praedial larceny and reminded the court of the Act’s maximum penalty of $3 million. Hunter also pleaded guilty and was fined $30,000.
This case underscores the importance of adhering to agricultural regulations to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and reduce theft within the sector.
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‘I am really sorry’
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Thursday, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz captain Andre Blake expressed deep regret and gratitude following the team’s failure to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Blake, a revered figure in Jamaican football, acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans and took responsibility for the team’s shortcomings. ‘Thank you, the support was unreal… As the leader of this group, we have failed to deliver and missed out on a massive opportunity… and for that, I am really sorry,’ he wrote. The disappointment stems from Jamaica’s 0–0 draw with Curaçao in their final Concacaf qualifier, a result that dashed their hopes of direct qualification. The Reggae Boyz, once considered strong contenders in their group, which included Curaçao, Trinidad and Tobago, and Bermuda, now face a challenging path to redemption. Their next chance lies in the inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026, where they will compete against New Caledonia and potentially the Democratic Republic of Congo for a World Cup spot. Adding to the turmoil, head coach Steve McClaren resigned immediately after the match, stating, ‘Football is a results business, and tonight we’ve fallen short of our goal.’ McClaren emphasized the need for accountability and leadership to guide the team forward. The Reggae Boyz must now regroup under new management and prepare for their final shot at World Cup glory.
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Totally Delicious Garlic Bread
Nestled on Mannings Hill Road, Totally Delicious Bakery has long been celebrated for its freshly baked hard-dough bread and comforting cakes. Recently, the bakery has introduced a new star to its menu: the garlic hard-dough bread. This innovative creation has quickly become a customer favorite, thanks to its rich, buttery flavor and aromatic herbs.
The journey of this gourmet bread began three years ago when a customer inquiry about different bread varieties sparked an idea in baker Simone Martin. Martin, who had previously experimented with garlic bread, decided to test the waters by producing small quantities. The initial response was positive, but the real breakthrough came when content creator Tallonn Zeparti reviewed the bread on his vlog. This exposure catapulted the garlic hard-dough bread into the limelight, making it a must-try item.
Available on Tuesdays and Fridays, the bakery now bakes nearly 60 loaves daily, offering them in two sizes: a large loaf for $900 and a smaller one for $500. Verne Williams, co-principal of Totally Delicious, describes the bread as a gourmet departure from traditional staples, offering a sophisticated twist that has become a favorite among caterers.
Supervisor Winsome Haynes highlights the bread’s versatility as its key appeal. ‘It’s a personal favorite because there are so many uses for it,’ she notes. ‘It works as a meal by itself or pairs beautifully with dishes like pasta or lasagna. The added health benefits of garlic make it even more appealing.’
The bakery’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation and customer feedback. From a simple idea to a gourmet sensation, Totally Delicious Bakery continues to delight its patrons with its unique and flavorful offerings.
