标签： Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In anticipation of Tropical Storm Melissa, Jamaican authorities have prepared more than 881 shelters across the island to ensure the safety of residents during and after the storm. Richard Thompson, Acting Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), announced this during a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, October 24.

Evan Thompson, Principal Director of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, has issued a stern warning to citizens, emphasizing that today is the final opportunity to prepare for Hurricane Melissa, which is anticipated to strike the island early next week with devastating consequences. Speaking at a special press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, Thompson stressed the urgency of immediate action. ‘Today is your last day to prepare. If you haven’t started yet, don’t assume you can easily complete your preparations tomorrow. Act now,’ he urged. Thompson highlighted the likelihood of overcrowded stores and advised residents to remain considerate of others, ensuring they only take what they need. He also encouraged Jamaicans to assist those who may be unable to prepare on their own. According to meteorological projections, Hurricane Melissa is expected to bring unprecedented rainfall, leading to severe, widespread, and life-threatening flooding. The storm’s slow movement will exacerbate the situation, as continuous rainfall will prevent water from receding. Thompson’s message underscores the gravity of the impending disaster and the critical need for preparedness.

WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa approaches, the flood-prone parish of Westmoreland is grappling with significant challenges in disaster preparedness. Illegal electrical connections, unauthorized water pipes, and informal settlements are obstructing critical drain-cleaning efforts, exacerbating the risk of flooding in vulnerable communities. Abigail Malcolm, Caretaker of the Cornwall Mountain Division, highlighted the difficulties faced during drain cleaning in the Petersfield Division, where illegal wires and improperly placed structures hindered the work of heavy machinery. In other areas, illegal water pipes and homes built too close to drains have further complicated the process, leaving residents increasingly vulnerable to flood damage. Member of Parliament for Central Westmoreland, Dwayne Vaz, has raised concerns about the parish’s garbage management crisis, noting that garbage trucks assigned to Westmoreland and Hanover were reportedly reassigned to St James. Vaz questioned the prioritization of resources, emphasizing the urgent need for the National Solid Waste Agency to address the backlog and ensure equitable service delivery. The closure of the Frome Sugar Factory has also worsened the situation, as the factory’s annual drain-cleaning practices previously mitigated flooding in Petersfield. With heavy rainfall now causing heightened fears of property damage, local authorities are calling for increased awareness campaigns, enforcement of regulations, and resource allocation to address these long-standing issues and protect the community’s safety and livelihoods.

WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — In a dramatic reversal of sentiment, residents of Savanna-la-Mar have transitioned from a defiant stance to a state of urgent preparedness as Hurricane Melissa looms closer. Initially, many locals confidently declared their intention to remain in their homes despite the impending storm. However, by Saturday afternoon, a palpable sense of urgency had taken hold, with families hastily packing their belongings and preparing to evacuate to safer locations.

Carey Levy, a local resident, encapsulated the growing anxiety, stating, ‘We not staying. We know it ago bad. Later tonight we a push out.’ This shift in attitude underscores the escalating threat posed by the hurricane, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flooding, and potentially devastating winds.

Marcine Campbell-Kerr, the Disaster Coordinator for Westmoreland, emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures. She urged residents to stock up on essential supplies, particularly those with medical conditions like diabetes, and to seek refuge in designated shelters. ‘We know that residents may be in the shelters for more than 24 hours, so we are encouraging them to carry enough food supplies. Even if it’s perishable items, bring them,’ she advised.

Local authorities have been working tirelessly to ensure that shelters are well-equipped to accommodate evacuees. Campbell-Kerr confirmed that shelters have been on standby since October 23, with two residents already checking into the Godfrey Stewart shelter. As dark clouds gather and the threat of severe weather intensifies, the once-casual atmosphere in Savanna-la-Mar has been replaced by a mood of cautious readiness.

With the community bracing for a potentially long and challenging night, officials continue to stress the importance of vigilance and prioritizing safety. Residents are being urged to heed all warnings, stay alert, and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families from the impending storm.