St. Thomas Readies for Hurricane Melissa

The Bamboo River drain in Morant Bay, St. Thomas, is among major channels cleared as the parish readies for Hurricane Melissa.

““I think we have done enough. There are some critical drains (in the parish) and they are cleaned like the one in Bamboo River, which is the main one,” Chief Engineering Officer at the St. Thomas Municipal Corporation, Odel Felix, told JIS News.

With the parish already experiencing rainfall associated with the system, the Corporation has been mobilising its teams to respond to any issues.

Mr. Felix said that so far “all roadways are clear and there has been no flooding reported.”

He said that shelters across the parish are opened and occupied.

He made an appeal to residents to seek shelter even if they do not live in a flood-prone or low-lying area, but feel that their house “is not strong enough.

“Shelters are not just for persons who live in flood-prone areas. If you feel like the structure of your house is not strong, in terms of having a slab roof, go to a shelter,” he advised.

In addition, residents are being urged to stay indoors and prioritise their safety as the nation braces for the category five system.

“Stay inside and keep safe. The hurricane is coming; keep off the streets. Protect yourself as best as possible,” Mr. Felix said.