KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is advising the public to incorporate measures that can minimise any environmental fallout from Hurricane Beryl which is expected to impact Jamaica and its territorial waters by Wednesday.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency urged entities that store hazardous waste to have containment systems in place to properly secure their waste and to ensure they have sufficient capacity to prevent any discharge to the environment.

Additionally, it urged entities and individuals, who have been granted permission to possess wildlife that are protected under the Wild Life Protection Act, or non-native species to secure enclosures to prevent the escape of animals from their facility.

NEPA said beach operators are being advised to secure temporary structures and other assets away from beach areas as the hurricane is expected to generate high waves and storm surges which will likely result in severe erosion along the coast.

It further urged the public to be on the lookout for wildlife such as crocodiles that might become displaced due to the impact of the system.

In the event that any of these animals are observed outside of their natural habitat where they may pose a threat to human activities or if the animals are being harassed or harmed in any way, the public is being encouraged to contact NEPA via 876-754-7540, 876-878-0173, 876-580-8081, 876-478-7666 or toll free at 888-991-5005 or email pubed@nepa.gov.jm.