The Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has commenced preparedness activities for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.

“As the entity responsible for disaster management in the municipality, the KSAMC has begun its preparation,” declared the Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Andrew Swaby.

Speaking during KSAMC’s monthly meeting at the corporation’s chambers in downtown Kingston earlier this month, Councillor Swaby said the inspection of emergency shelters has been completed.

This exercise was undertaken by the Shelter Inspection Team comprising representatives of the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB), Kingston and St. Andrew Health Department, and KSAMC.

“We have scheduled training sessions for new and existing shelter managers to ensure that our shelters will be adequately managed and supervised,” Councillor Swaby further informed.

The mayor indicated that the Disaster Management Unit has commenced its procurement process to replenish emergency supplies.

Additionally, he said the unit has secured a drone, which will be used for damage assessment and mapping of disaster areas.

“The use of this device will enhance our ability to have an appreciation for the physical condition that exists on the ground,” Councillor Swaby pointed out.

Meanwhile, the mayor said the Roads and Works Department kicked off preparations for the annual mitigation programme. These include the cleaning of coastal, non-coastal and regular drains across the municipality.

The Meteorological Service of Jamaica also made a presentation during a meeting of the Parish Disaster and Climate Change Committee.

Councillor Swaby said the KSAMC will continue taking steps to ensure that adequate preparations are made to mitigate the threats that may be faced during the hurricane season, while reiterating some of the precautionary measures to be taken during the period.

“We must ensure that our roofs are sturdy enough to withstand wind and rain that come with hurricanes,” the mayor said.

He further pointed out that overgrown trees should be trimmed and objects that might be dislodged and become missiles, secured.

Councillor Swaby encourages citizens to commence stocking up on food items, particularly non-perishables and other essentials such as batteries, flashlights, medications and toiletries. He said these should be purchased and secured in a safe and dry place.

The mayor further encourages families to develop emergency plans and remain vigilant.

Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States predict an 85 per cent chance of an above-normal season, which will see the formation of 17 to 25 named storms, eight to 13 hurricanes, and five to seven major hurricanes.