Noel Thompson, Freelance Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
As the island continues to brace itself for possible hurricanes this season, Jamaicans are being reminded to make all necessary preparations in the event of a disaster.
Vinette Atkinson, manager of the Montego Bay branch of the Meteorological Service (Met Office), said it was not yet clear whether or not any storm or hurricane would be a direct threat to Jamaica during this hurricane season.
Miss Atkinson was sensitizing members of the Montego Bay community at a "Hurricane Preparedness Forum" at the Civic Centre in Sam Sharpe Square last Friday, which formed part of the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS)-sponsored 'Islandwide Hurricane Forums'.
"We wouldn't know as yet, but we are expecting between 13 and 16 storms for the season, which is between June 1 to November 30," she said. "Eight to 10 of these should be hurricanes, while four to six should be major hurricanes. Three have already passed but it is still early days, so we have to be prepared."
She added that it was important to note that the main hurricane season was between August and November, while those which have been formed in the region, have come between August and September.
Aims to inform
JNBS Regional Manager Ted Williams said the building society took the decision to host the forums nationwide due to the significant impact the last major hurricanes had on the island and the fact that most people had no clue how to cope with the situation.
Following the onslaught of Hurricane Ivan, JNBS disbursed grants to several persons who were severely affected.
"We have to take steps to ensure that people are adequately prepared before a disaster and that they can recover quickly in the aftermath," Mr. Williams stated.
Earl Jarrett, JNBS general manager, said the forums were among several initiatives being undertaken to help its members become self-reliant, as well as recover quickly in the event of a disaster.
"This forms part of our commitment to give added value to our members, particularly in light of the devastation the island has faced in recent years," Mr. Jarrett remarked.
JNBS plans to host 11 hurricane forums nationwide, the first of which commenced on July 20. They are aimed at giving advice and to highlight appropriate offerings from the society and its subsidiaries including JN Real Estate and NEM Insurance Company.
