KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has ordered the immediate evacuation of several vulnerable communities across the island as Hurricane Melissa bears down on Jamaica with life-threatening rain, storm surges, and powerful winds.
The announcement was made on Sunday under the Disaster Risk Management Act, as meteorologists continue to warn that Melissa is expected to deliver intense rainfall and wind speeds exceeding 130 miles per hour — potentially causing widespread flooding, landslides, and coastal damage.
Areas Under Evacuation Order
The following areas have been identified as high-risk zones and are now subject to mandatory evacuation:
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Port Royal, Kingston
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Portland Cottage, Clarendon
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Rocky Point, Clarendon
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Old Harbour Bay, St. Catherine
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Taylor Land, Bull Bay, St. Andrew
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New Haven, St. Andrew
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Riverton City, St. Andrew
Government Response and Warnings
Prime Minister Holness emphasized that the safety of citizens is the government’s top priority and urged residents in affected areas to move immediately to designated shelters.
“We cannot take any chances with lives,” Holness said during the emergency briefing. “We are asking everyone in these communities to cooperate fully with the evacuation orders and to act swiftly. Your safety and the safety of your family depend on it.”
Emergency response teams, including the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), and Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB), have been deployed to assist with relocation and provide logistical support.
Shelters and Preparedness
Shelters across multiple parishes have been activated and are being stocked with emergency supplies, including food, water, bedding, and medical support.
Residents are being reminded to bring essential items such as medications, identification documents, and basic toiletries when relocating.
The Meteorological Service of Jamaica continues to monitor Hurricane Melissa’s progress and has warned that the system could bring up to 12 inches of rainfall in some areas, triggering flash flooding and severe coastal erosion.
Regional Impact
Other Caribbean territories are also bracing for the effects of Hurricane Melissa, with forecasters predicting strong winds and heavy rainfall across parts of the Cayman Islands, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic in the coming days.
Public Advisory
Citizens are being advised to:
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Stay tuned to official media channels and ODPEM advisories.
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Avoid coastal areas and flooded roads.
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Check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and vulnerable individuals.
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Refrain from spreading unverified information on social media.
Unity in the Storm
As Jamaicans prepare for Hurricane Melissa’s impact, community spirit remains strong. Volunteers, church groups, and NGOs have already begun mobilizing relief supplies to assist those in need.
“Jamaica has faced many storms before,” Holness said. “We will weather this one together — with vigilance, compassion, and faith.”
