July 1, 2024
– Cabinet activates DRMA in response to Hurricane Beryl
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica has been upgraded from a hurricane watch to a hurricane warning in preparation for Hurricane Beryl, prompting Cabinet to establish a disaster response structure under the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA).
A hurricane warning means dangerous sea conditions associated with a hurricane are expected to prevail across the island over the next 24 to 36 hours.
The announcement was made on Monday following advice from Minister for Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie and the latest warning from the Met Office.
DRMA gives the government additional powers to coordinate and carry out various emergency response activities, ensuring a more effective and streamlined approach to disaster management.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness stressed the importance of proactive measures as Jamaica prepares for Hurricane Beryl, saying his administration’s number one priority is “the safety of Jamaicans.”
“By invoking the Disaster Risk Management Act, we are taking a proactive stance to prepare and protect our country against any potential threats posed by Beryl. Government agencies are mobilized and ready to respond to any eventuality. We will weather this storm together,” Holness said.
The Government urges all citizens to remain vigilant, make the necessary preparations and cooperate with the authorities during this period. Regular updates and guidelines will be provided as the weather event approaches to keep everyone informed and prepared.
{“jamaica-observer”:”Jamaica Observer”}
