Kingston, Jamaica— The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has issued a warning to residents in flood-prone areas across Jamaica, following reports from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica about the arrival of a potent tropical wave. The wave is anticipated to affect the island from Wednesday through Friday.
According to the Meteorological Service, this strong tropical wave will bring unstable weather conditions, resulting in showers and thunderstorms initially over eastern and south-central parishes on Wednesday and Thursday. By Friday, the storm’s effects will shift to include scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms, particularly over the western parishes and hilly regions.
In response, the ODPEM has advised residents in flood-prone areas to take several precautionary measures:
- Evacuation: Be prepared to evacuate if you reside in low-lying or flood-prone zones. Plan your evacuation routes early.
- Avoid Waterways: Steer clear of flooded fords, gullies, streams, or rivers, whether on foot or in vehicles.
- Secure Documents: Ensure all important documents are stored in plastic bags or waterproof containers.
- Power and Utilities: Turn off all electrical power, gas, and water supplies in areas immediately threatened by flooding.
- Road Safety: Avoid areas with damaged roadways and downed power lines.
- Landslide Precautions: Stay away from regions susceptible to landslides and flooding.
“The ODPEM is reminding the public that we are still in the Hurricane Season, and persons should adhere to the safety precautions issued by the ODPEM, the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, and other authorities,” stated an official release from the agency.
The ODPEM urges the public to remain vigilant and monitor updates from media outlets and weather authorities for the latest information on the storm’s path and intensity.
For further updates, stay tuned to local news channels and the official advisories from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and ODPEM. Your safety is paramount; prepare accordingly.
