All public hospitals across the island have entered emergency mode as the health system prepares for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa. Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, said that while hospitals will remain open, outpatient and elective surgeries will be suspended for the time being to focus on emergencies. “Visitations will be limited and family...

Emergency protocols have been fully activated at Jamaica’s international airports in preparation for Tropical Storm Melissa, says Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Transportation, Hon. Daryl Vaz. “At Sangster International Airport, MBJ Airports Limited has implemented pre-hurricane measures, including drainage and tree clearing, testing of generators with a 36-hour fuel reserve and positioning of emergency supplies. At Norman Manley International Airport,...

With Tropical Storm Melissa approaching the island, Minister of Energy, Telecommunications and Transportation, Hon. Daryl Vaz, has assured the public that the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) and Montego Bay Metro Company Limited will continue regular bus operations, provided conditions remain safe. “Service updates will be shared via social media and public channels,” the Minister advised during a special briefing...

Pregnant women in Westmoreland who are close to delivery are encouraged to relocate nearer to medical facilities as a precautionary measure ahead of Tropical Storm Melissa. Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, said women who are within one month of their due date should make early arrangements to stay with family or friends who live close to...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has secured a comprehensive range of emergency and care items and established lines of credit in 11 parishes to enable the swift replenishment of essential goods, where necessary, to further strengthen Jamaica’s readiness for the impact of Tropical Storm Melissa. Distribution of care supplies has commenced in three parishes. To date, provisions have...

The Westmoreland Health Department is reminding residents to ensure they have an adequate supply of prescribed medication as the island braces for the possible impact of Tropical Storm Melissa. Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, said persons with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma should act early to refill prescriptions and secure medications before the...

Mayor of St. Ann’s Bay, Councillor Michael Belnavis, says that all government agencies are actively engaged in dialogue as preparations intensify for tropical storm Melissa, which could become a hurricane. With the island now officially under both a tropical storm and hurricane watch, the Mayor emphasised that every State agency is on high alert, remaining vigilant and ready for all...