The Meteorological Service has continued the Flash Flood Warning for low-lying and flood-prone areas of all parishes until 5:00 p.m. tomorrow. This Warning means that flooding has been reported or will occur shortly. 

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has received the following reports from St. Mary.

Flooded Homes

• Galina, – Two houses are flooded
• Mason Hall –  House flooded and family of 5 is marooned.
• Race Coarse – The community is flooded, two persons are marooned in the area.

 The Local Emergency Teams are responding to those marooned.  

Roads and infrastructure

• Derry Main Road – Roads are blocked by flood and debris
• Oracabessa – Landslide along the main road, section is impassable
• Hamilton Mountain – The Eden Bridge is impassable.
• Wentworth – A house collapsed

The ODPEM is advising the public that while we are currently in the process of relocation, callers to the ODPEM will experience some delays on our regular numbers.  During this period of transition calls to the office should be made at telephone numbers 928-5112-4 or toll free 1-888-991-4262 or 618-5637 – 618-5644.  

The public is advised to continue monitoring the radio 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.

• Avoid flooded waterways, i.e. Fording, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.

The Meteorological Service and ODPEM will continue to monitor the situation and further updates will be provided as the situation demands.


Contact: Delmares White, Director Information and Training, Dwhite@odpem.org.jm