Kingston, Jamaica, August, 16, 2008 (ODPEM)- The Meteorological Service has advised the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) that Jamaica is now on a TROPICAL STORM WATCH. A TROPICAL STORM WATCH is the first alert given when a tropical storm poses a possible, but yet uncertain threat to a coastal area.
Fay formed in the vicinity of eastern Dominican Republic and is expected to pass over 100 kilometres (65 miles) off Jamaica’s northeast coast later tonight into Sunday. As early as this evening, Jamaica could begin to experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds, especially over northern parishes (Portland, St. Ann, St. Mary and Trelawny). Marine conditions north and east of the island will also deteriorate today and small craft operators, especially fishers north and east of the island, are encouraged to exercise extreme caution and not venture far from land. Offshore winds are expected to reach near gale force by this evening.
The ODPEM has taken the following actions:
- Critical members of the National Response Team (NRT) have been alerted and are on standby should the need arise.
- Regional Coordinators have alerted their respective Parish Disaster Coordinators (PDCs).
- Shelter managers for priority shelters along the north coast are on standby should the need arise to open shelters.
- The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has been activated, with a skeletal team monitoring the situation.
The public is advised to continue monitoring radios and televisions for further advisories and to avoid areas that are at risk from flooding and landslides. Also take the following precautions in the event of heavy rains:
- Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide on likely evacuation routes now. Plan to stay with family or friends in safer areas or in a public shelter and move to safety.
- Avoid flooded waterways, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.
The ODPEM will continue to update the public as the need arises.
Contact: Kerry-Ann Morris, Information Officer, kmorris@odpem.org.jm
