AS Hurricane Beryl barrels towards Jamaica, causing some anxiety, Prime Minister Andrew Holness is urging Jamaicans to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure their safety during the passage of the system.

“I know it is natural to feel anxious during such times but I urge you to remain calm and act rationally. Panic and fear can lead to poor decision-making and unnecessary risks. Instead, let us focus on taking practical steps to safeguard ourselves and our communities,” he said in an address to the nation Tuesday.

Holness again implored people who live in low-lying or flood-prone areas to evacuate. He said he understands that people are concerned about leaving their home and property, but urged them to first protect their life and the lives of their loved ones.

“Please go to your nearest shelter and follow the instructions of local authorities promptly,” he pleaded.

The prime minister further advised people to create an emergency plan by discussing with family and loved ones what actions to take in the event of an emergency. He also told Jamaicans to identify a safe room or area in their home in which to take shelter during the storm, and to ensure that everyone knows the location of emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, and first-aid kits.

Prime Minister Holness also encouraged Jamaicans to prepare an emergency supply kit with enough food, water, medications, and other necessities. This should include items such as non-perishable food, bottled water, prescription medications, toiletries, and important documents in waterproof containers, he said.

He also advised citizens to take steps to protect their home from potential damage by trimming trees around their property, securing loose items that could become projectiles in high winds, and protect windows with board reinforcements and if necessary. He said citizens should ensure that roofs are secure and free of debris.

Holness also implored citizens to stay off the roads, remain indoors during the passage of the hurricane, keep away from downed power lines, and report emergencies to the appropriate authorities.

He urged everyone to look out for each other, especially the most vulnerable — the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those with young children.

“Community support and solidarity are vital during times like this. Reach out to your neighbours and offer assistance, where possible, while observing the necessary safety precautions,” he said.

In the meantime the prime minister announced that a special allocation of $5 million has been made available for all Members of Parliament (MPs) for emergency hurricane preparation and response efforts.

He said the Government is working diligently to ensure that it is prepared to respond to any emergency that may arise from Hurricane Beryl, noting that the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has been activated, and all relevant agencies are on high alert.

On Tuesday afternoon Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service) said Hurricane Beryl has been downgraded from a Category 5 to a Category 4 storm, with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph.

In its update at 1:00 pm on Tuesday the Met Service said the storm is expected to weaken even further as it heads towards Jamaica.

Though the hurricane has lost intensity slightly, the catastrophic system is still powering its ways through the Caribbean and is still expected to make landfall in southern Jamaica on Wednesday.

Initial forecasts had shown the centre of the hurricane passing south of the island, however official forecasts from the National Hurricane Center now show the centre of the hurricane making landfall.

Beryl has already caused severe damage in the eastern Caribbean.

– Alecia Smith