ODPEM declares state of readiness for tropical storm

Richard Thompson, the Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), says that Jamaica is prepared to face an impending tropical storm. 

He was speaking during an interview on Nationwide at Five.

Activation of the national response team

He shared that the country’s national response team has been activated. 

Thompson further added that the placement of shelter managers is on standby. 

ODPEM’s advisory to the public

In light of the forecast, ODPEM urges the Jamaican public to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their communities. 

These include evacuating from low-lying or flood-prone areas, avoiding flooded roads and waterways, and turning off all electrical power, gas, and water supplies in areas that are in immediate danger.

School closures across the island

The tropical storm watch has also resulted in all schools across Jamaica being closed on Friday.

The Ministry of Education and Youth announced the closure, and emphasized its commitment to the well-being of students and staff, prioritizing their safety in the face of potential flooding and hazardous travel conditions.

The tropical storm watch which was issued on Thursday comes as weather conditions continue to worsen across the island due to an area of low pressure in the southwestern Caribbean.