Ivan, no problem!
Scores of Corporate Area residents cloaked in raincoats and armed with
umbrellas on Friday morning stood at several intersections as if they
were eagerly anticipating the arrival of Hurricane Ivan.
However, members of the international media seemed perturbed by the delay
in the arrival of Hurricane Ivan, as a contingent of overseas journalists
were seen with cameras set up and arms folded in disappointment down by
the Waterfront in downtown Kingston.
Additionally, herds of young men along with a few females stood along
the Michael Manley Boulevard observing the action out at sea. Some even
took the timeout to frolic, as several youngsters from Tivoli Gardens
were seen playing 'water war' in the streets. Some had buckets of water
while others had clear plastic bags filled with water attempting to soak
each other.
It seemed that the imminent threat that Hurricane Ivan posed to both lives
and properties had not yet registered in the minds of many Jamaicans,
as The Gleaner's roving news team even saw persons playing dominoes on
a street corner.
On the more serious side, residents from Duhaney Park were seen cleaning
drains, securing rooftops and trimming branches from trees as they brace
themselves for what could be the most devastating Hurricane in Jamaica's
history.
Those who felt vulnerable staying at home found their way to shelters
in their communities or designated areas within close proximity.
At the National Arena, more than 200 persons, including a large number
of children, sought refuge there. Persons from the evacuated areas of
Port Royal and Portmore made up most of the numbers but several residents
from the Corporate Area also made their way to the shelter.
Sheila West, Shelter Manager at the Arena noted that this number was expected
to grow as weather conditions continue to deteriorate.
"As the day progresses we expect 1,000 to 1,500 persons to come in
to the shelter," she said. Police officers were also present to assist
with monitoring of the facility.
Over at the Edith Dalton-James High in Duhaney Park, a gathering of
60 persons, mostly children, from the nearby New Haven community had already
congregated at the school when The Gleaner visited.
Yvonne Pryce, Shelter Manager at that school noted that persons started
to arrive from Thursday. However, while supplies had not yet arrived when
The Gleaner visited, at least one good Samaritan came by and donated foods
and other miscellaneous items.
While many sought refuge, some shelters remained empty and unopened. The
George Headley Primary school,despite being a designated shelter, remained
closed while at the Pembrook Hall High only the school security guard
was on hand to receive residents, although none had arrived as yet.
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