Jamaica: Widespread flooding

Event

Heavy rainfall in Jamaica over the last few days has resulted in widespread flooding. This prompted Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Tuesday, May 16, to activate the entirety of country’s emergency systems, e.g. the National Works Agency (NWA) and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), to assist flood victims. The worst of the flooding has been in the parishes of Saint Catherine, Clarendon, Manchester, Saint Thomas, and Saint Ann. Flash flood warnings have been issued for all low-lying areas of the country and other flood-prone zones. 

This situation resulted in the majority of schools being closed on May 16; similar closures, along with transportation and business disruptions, are possible on May 17 and in the following days.

Context

Torrential rains have affected numerous Caribbean countries in recent days and weeks.

Advice

Individuals in Jamaica are advised to follow weather forecasts and to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities, notably potential evacuation orders. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous – 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult – and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs disposed of.