Prime Minister Andrew Holness says Government and emergency agencies are on high alert as preparations are in place for the possible impact of Hurricane Beryl.

Holness, speaking at yesterday’s (Juen 29) St. Andrew South Police Community Consultative Conference at Pembroke Hall High School, urged all Jamaicans to stay on the alert and be prepared for the imminent impact posed by Hurricane Beryl, currently advancing towards the Caribbean region.

With the hurricane projected to potentially impact Jamaica mid-week, Prime Minister Holness emphasised the critical importance of preparedness.

“We have already taken steps to be prepared as a government. The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is on alert. The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is on alert. So, should the worst happen, the government is already mobilized and prepared.”

Prime Minister Holness continued:

“Various models have projected that Tropical Storm (now Hurricane) Beryl will probably impact Jamaica. All the models have suggested that if it is not a direct impact, it will be in the vicinity of Jamaica. We expect that this will bring adverse weather conditions.”

In that regard, the prime Minister urged all Jamaicans to take immediate action to safeguard themselves and their families.

“I’m encouraging all Jamaicans to get your precautionary stocks in place. Your stocks of goods, food, batteries and candles, and a supply of water just in case. Ensure that your critical documents are secure. If there are any trees or other things that could be of danger to your property, please ensure that you take the necessary actions to secure those items and to secure your property as well.”

Acknowledging the unpredictability of weather events, Holness insisted that proactive measures are needed,

“It is better to be prepared than to be sorry that you didn’t prepare. So, I encourage all Jamaicans to take the necessary steps. It is now for the citizens themselves, householders, and people who live alone, to be aware of the possibility and take the necessary actions.”

The Meteorological Service of Jamaica, while noting that Hurricane Beryl does not yet pose any direct threat to the island, says it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to heed all advisories issued by relevant authorities.

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