KINGSTON, Jamaica — With Hurricane Melissa now lashing parts of the island and expected to strengthen into a major Category 4 system, Minister of Local Government Desmond McKenzie is warning construction operators to take urgent action — or risk turning their work sites into flying hazards.
“We Cannot Afford to Create Missiles”
Speaking at a special media briefing at Jamaica House on Saturday, Minister McKenzie urged contractors and developers across Jamaica to secure all loose material and heavy equipment as the hurricane bears down on the island.
“I am making a general appeal to operators of all construction sites, not just in the Corporate Area but across the country,” McKenzie said. “They must start taking the necessary steps to remove cranes, steel, sand, and blocks — these can cause serious harm, block drains, and lead to devastating damage.”
McKenzie said early checks on Saturday revealed several sites with sand, gravel, and even cranes left unsecured, despite repeated warnings.
A Storm Jamaica Can’t Take Lightly
Melissa, which now carries winds of 130 mph (209 km/h), is already being felt in sections of Jamaica and is expected to bring prolonged rain for at least two days.
Officials are warning that loose construction debris could become deadly projectiles in the hurricane’s strong winds — threatening both lives and property.
“Remove Billboards and Abandoned Vehicles”
McKenzie also called for advertising companies to take down large outdoor billboards and banners immediately, warning that they could easily become dangerous airborne debris.
He added that used cars left on roadways will be removed and dumped by authorities if not cleared.
“We cannot afford to create missiles that will hurt people during this period,” McKenzie said. “I am asking for the cooperation of those persons that I have just outlined.”
The Bigger Picture
As Jamaica braces for Hurricane Melissa’s full impact, emergency officials continue to urge citizens, contractors, and business owners to treat this storm with utmost seriousness.
From construction sites to neighborhoods, every unsecured item can become a hazard.
The message from the minister was clear: Prepare now — before the storm turns your materials into weapons.
