Go-Jamaica Weather Watch

As Tropical Storm Gustav become more organised, the Met Office has replaced the Hurricane Warning for the entire island with immediate effect.  A hurricane warning means that dangerous conditions could be experienced within the next 24 hours or less, these conditions include: high winds, flood producing rains and storm surges. 

The public is being advised to treat the situation seriously, as the current path will see the storm moving along Jamaica’s South Coast, resulting in widespread impact.

Hurricane Safety Tips
The public is being urged 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:

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.      Wrap important personal items, family documents, and electrical appliances in plastic bags and store away from the reach of floodwaters.
5.      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 Tropical Storm Gustav.