Declaration of Threatened Area or Disaster Area

Under the Disaster Risk Management Act (section 26), the Prime Minister may declare a Threatened Area or Disaster Area when unsafe conditions exist, such as hurricanes. This declaration is an important emergency measure that allows authorities to act quickly and effectively before, during or after an event.

In some instances, a Declaration of Threatened Area can be revoked and a Declaration of Disaster Area ordered if conditions of the threat or hazard worsen. Given the importance of this declaration, its use is guided by a structured process.

The Chain of Recommendations

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) reports to the Minister responsible for disaster preparedness and emergency management, that an area of the island or the entire island is facing dangerous conditions or is under threat from a natural or man-made hazard. These hazards include storms, flooding, earthquakes, landslides, fires, industrial accidents or any situation that endangers public safety.

Based on the recommendation of the ODPEM and if additional or urgent measures are needed beyond what is normally provided, the Minister will inform the Prime Minister and a declaration may be considered.

The Declaration

A declaration is only made when the Prime Minister is satisfied that the whole or any part of Jamaica is threatened by a hazard; that disaster has occurred, is occurring or is likely to occur; and that critical action is required to prevent or reduce loss and harm. The Prime Minister will make the declaration by an order which is published in the newspaper or other broadcast medium. This order takes effect immediately or at a time specified by the Prime Minister.

The Threatened Area or Disaster Area

The public is encouraged to follow the instructions of authorities during such declarations. The declaration of a Threatened Area or Disaster Area allows authorised officers to enter premises, without the owner’s consent to ensure that emergency orders are being followed or to carry out protective actions, such as evacuation. These powers are used when necessary to safeguard life, health, property and the environment.

For additional information, contact:

The Office of the Prime Minister
Address: 1 Devon Road, Kingston
Telephone: 876-927-9941
Email: opmnews@opm.gov.jm
Website: www.opm.gov.jm
Instagram, X: @opmjamaica
Facebook: Jamaica House

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
Address: 2-4 Haining Road, Kingston
Telephone: 876-906-9674
Email: odpem@cwjamaica.com
Website: www.odpem.org.jm
X, Instagram: @odpem
Facebook: ODPEM JA