Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, has assured that the Government is fully prepared to address any challenges that arise due to the impending passage of Tropical Storm Melissa. “I want to reassure the country of Jamaica's readiness to face up to this challenge that is imminent. The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM),...

Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Matthew Samuda, is urging Jamaicans to prepare as the country braces for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa. “This is certainly not a time for panic, but it is a time for preparation,” he said, during a special press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) this morning (October 22)....

Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Delroy Williams, says the impact of local government touches all aspects of the lives of Jamaicans. “You can’t hide from it; we are involved in every aspect of your life, for example road maintenance, flood mitigation, building regulations, disaster management and responsiveness – all of it is...

The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI) remains in constant communication with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. According to the latest updates, Tropical Storm Melissa has slowed significantly, and a further decrease in forward speed is projected. School boards and principals have been urged to assess their local circumstances carefully and make informed decisions regarding school operations, under...

Jamaica’s Emergency Management teams are on full alert in light of the impending passage of Tropical Storm Melissa, says Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Matthew Samuda. The teams are operating under the coordination of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Jamaica has been placed under a Tropical Storm Watch, indicating that tropical storm conditions...

Ice cream vendor Aladean Stewart, who heroically saved a life, was among three citizens honoured for their outstanding contributions to community and nation-building during the Heritage Flag-Raising Ceremony held at Independence Park in Black River, St. Elizabeth, on National Heroes Day, Monday, October 20. Mr. Stewart, a resident of Black River, was formally recognised for gallantry following a heroic rescue...

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) is advising the public that the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (MSJ) has reported a potential tropical cyclone to form in the central Caribbean later today that could pose a possible threat to Jamaica within 48 hours. This system is expected to produce heavy rainfall and strong gusty winds with the potential...