PRESS RELEASE #17

ODPEM: KINSGTON
Issued on: Friday August 29, 2008 at 6:00 a.m.

Update: Tropical Storm Gustav

The ODPEM is advising the public that a hurricane warning remains in effect for the entire island as parishes continue to be affected by the torrential rainfall and windy conditions associated with the passage of Tropical Storm Gustav.  Reports to the National Emergency Operations Center have revealed that widespread flooding is being experienced across the entire island.  FLASH FLOODING AND STORM SURGES ARE EXPECTED

Reports

Flooding
• Extensive flooding have reported primarily over the eastern end of the island
• Communities along the Hope River from Gordon Town, north of Caribbean Terrace encountered flooding
• 30 persons from the Judgment Yard area of August Town are marooned as a result of flood waters.

Landslide
• Several landslides have occurred in the Gordon Town/Kintyre areas of upper St. Andrew

Affected Communities
• The bridge which connects the parishes of St. Thomas and St. Andrew has been damaged, rendering it impassable
• Several communities in the McGregor Gully area have been affected as the gully has overflowed its bank

Shelters
76 Shelters are currently opened across the island, housing 1520 persons

Actions
• Parish Emergency Operation Centers have been responding to localized situations
• The Bog Walk Gorge remains closed as the water has reached critical levels
• Air lift and rescue operations have been organized for residents in the Judgment Yard Area

The ODPEM advises all to continue monitoring radio and television stations 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:

1. Avoid flooded waterways, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.
2. Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
3. 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.
4. Take the following with you if you must go to a shelter:
 Blankets and extra clothing; Medication; 24 hours’ supply of non-perishable food and water and a can opener; toilet articles such as toilet tissue and soap; portable radio, flashlights and batteries; First Aid Kit.
5. Wrap important personal items, family documents, and electrical appliances in plastic bags and store away from the reach of floodwaters.
6. All small craft operators, including fishers from the cays and banks, are advised to secure their vessels and remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal.

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), headquartered at the ODPEM’s offices at 12 Camp Road, Kingston 4, continues to be activated and closely monitoring the progress of T.S. Gustav.