Press Release # 1
Issued on: Sunday, August 23, 2020, at 5:30 p.m.
TROPICAL STORM LAURA

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) wishes to advise the public that Tropical Storm Laura will be passing north of Jamaica today and that the Metrological Service of Jamaica has issued a Flash Flood Watch for all low-lying and flood-prone areas of all parishes effective until 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 24, 2020.

There is a strong possibility for increased rainfall and high wind gust for the Eastern & Southern Parishes notably: Portland, St. Thomas, Kingston & St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland

A Flash Flood Watch means that flooding is possible. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures, keep informed by listening to further releases from the Meteorological Service and the ODPEM and be ready to take quick action if flooding is observed or if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.

Persons are advised to take the following procedures

1. Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide on likely
   evacuations routes now.
2. Avoid flooded water-ways i.e. fording, gullies, streams, or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles.
3. Ensure that all important documents are secured in plastic bags or waterproof containers
4. Shut off all electrical power, gas, and water supplies in areas that are in immediate danger for
   flooding.
   

The ODPEM will continuously monitor the system and provide the public with further information pertaining to Tropical Storm Laura.

“Disasters Do Happen … Be Prepared”
Contact: Joyce Robinson, Information Officer Jrobinson@odpem.org.jm , 876 552-4861