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HURRICANE EMILY NEWS RELEASE # 1

July 14, 2005

The Full Story

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has been advised by the National Meteorological Service, that Hurricane Emily, currently a Category 2 hurricane, will pass close to the island’s south coast on Saturday, as it moves towards the Northwestern Caribbean. This means that Hurricane Conditions could start affecting the island within 36 hours. Showers, thunderstorms and increasing wind speeds could begin to spread across the island by Friday evening.
The Public is advised to monitor News Releases from the ODPEM and the Meteorological Service closely in case conditions change rapidly, and to start taking precautions to protect life and property. Organizations are advised to activate their disaster plans.
As the nation prepares for Emily, the National Response Team is still on full alert. Fishermen on the cays and banks, especially on the Morant and Pedro Cays, are advised to evacuate immediately and start returning to the Mainland.
The ODPEM is advising the public to take the following precautions:
See that galvanized sheeting on your roofs, outbuildings and fences are securely fastened. Ensure that you have enough boards, nails, rope etc. on hand to batten down your property.
If you live in low-lying, coastal or flood-prone areas, be ready to evacuate. Decide on likely evacuation routes now. Plan to stay with family or friends in safer areas or in a public shelter.
Put together an emergency supplies kit with enough items to last a few days. Make sure to include tinned food, water, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, and a first aid kit and family medication.
Trim trees and secure loose objects which could become missiles
All business houses should prepare their organizations and activate their disaster plans.
ODPEM continues to monitor the situation. For further information the public may call the ODPEM at 928-5111-4 or check the website at www.odpem.org.jm.

Last Updated: July 14, 2005

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