Jamaica Prepares for Passage of Tropical Depression 18

Government Takes Precautions

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Jamaica is bracing for the passage of tropical depression 18, shutting down government businesses this afternoon in anticipation of tropical storm conditions expected to begin affecting the country this evening.

Emergency Response Measures

The government has activated the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) following consultations with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica.

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) said the NEOC is ready to coordinate preparedness and response measures as the situation evolves. The NEOC will focus on mobilizing resources, ensuring effective communication, and maintaining readiness to support and aid affected communities.

“Today, we are placing every possible resource at the disposal of our emergency response teams to ensure the safety and well-being of every Jamaican. The National Emergency Operations Centre is fully mobilized and ready to respond to any developments,” said Local Government and Community Development Minister Desmond McKenzie.

“We urge all Jamaicans to remain vigilant, stay informed through official updates, and take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” McKenzie added.

Preparations Underway

The authorities said that all essential and emergency services, including hospitals and law enforcement, will continue operating normally.

Regional Updates

A hurricane warning is in effect for the Cayman Islands, while a hurricane watch is for the Cuban provinces of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Isle of Youth.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Jamaica.

Cayman Islands Deputy Governor Franz Manderson said, “We are now under a hurricane warning…as potential Tropical Cyclone 18 approaches our area. This warning means that hurricane conditions could impact us within 36 hours.”

He said the National Hazard Management Executive (NHME) met on Sunday to review and prepare for the storm’s potential impact.

“Everyone is urged to use today to complete preparations. Please stay informed on the latest developments as this system continues to intensify. Government schools will remain open today but will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, 5th November,” Manderson added.

National Hurricane Center Update

The Miami-based National Hurricane Center (NHC), in its latest bulletin, said the storm is 200 miles south of Kingston and 430 miles southeast of Grand Cayman.

Its maximum sustained winds are 35 miles per hour (mph), and the depression is moving toward the north at near nine mph.

“A northwestward motion is expected to begin later today and forecast to continue for the next few days. On the forecast track, the system is expected to move near Jamaica late tonight, be near or over the Cayman Islands on Tuesday, and approach Cuba on Wednesday,” the NHC said.

The NHC is warning that heavy rainfall will impact areas of the western Caribbean. Through mid-week, the heaviest rainfall will occur over Jamaica and portions of Cuba.

It said rainfall totals between three and six inches, with locally up to nine inches, are expected. Flooding could occur over portions of Jamaica and Cuba, with mudslides possible.

Conclusion

The passage of Tropical Depression 18 is expected to bring significant weather conditions to Jamaica and the surrounding regions. It is essential for residents and visitors to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.

FAQs

* What is the current status of Tropical Depression 18?
Tropical Depression 18 is currently located 200 miles south of Kingston and 430 miles southeast of Grand Cayman, with maximum sustained winds of 35 miles per hour (mph).
* What is the expected impact of the storm?
The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, with totals between three and six inches, and possible flooding and mudslides in some areas.
* What measures are being taken to prepare for the storm?
The Jamaican government has activated the National Emergency Operations Centre and is working to mobilize resources, ensure effective communication, and maintain readiness to support and aid affected communities.
* What is the current warning status for the Cayman Islands and Cuba?
A hurricane warning is in effect for the Cayman Islands, while a hurricane watch is in effect for the Cuban provinces of Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas, and the Isle of Youth.