ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: September 12, 2004
TIME: 1:00 pm
EFFECTS OF HURRICANE IVAN ON JAMAICA
Barbados, Sept. 12, 2004 (CDERA) - At 11 am Eastern Caribbean Time the core
of Hurricane Ivan was over 200 mile west of Montego Bay, Jamaica. All
warnings and watches have been discontinued for Jamaica as weather
conditions continue to improve. Small marine vessels should remain in port
until sea conditions return to normal. Hurricane Ivan has caused some level
of damage to virtually all areas in Jamaica.
SITUATION UPDATE
The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) reported extensive damage to
house roofs and roads.
Fallen utility poles and trees made several roads impassable. Damage to
coastal roads in the east was primarily due to storm surges and flooding.
There were also reports of persons trapped in homes due to roof collapse.
Fifteen (15) confirmed deaths and several injuries due to fallen trees or
damaged roofs.
Preliminary reports indicate widespread damage in the areas of housing and
infrastructure. Numerous landslides across the country are also being
reported.
It is anticipated that both international airports will be re-opened by this
afternoon.
Light and water services remain unavailable whilst supply and distribution
systems are being checked.
It is anticipated that residents evacuated from Port Royal community will be
returned when the clearing of the Palisadoes Road is completed. Residents
from the Portmore community are being allowed to return. Reports from the
eastern coastal areas remain sketchy.
STIREPs from Jamaica are continually being shared with the Donor Community
to inform considerations for support.
The CDERA CU has established amateur radio station with the support of the
Barbados Amateur Radio Society, specifically for communicating with Jamaica.
Early indications are that the Caribbean Disaster Response Unit (CDRU) (2)
may no longer be required based on preliminary information. However, the
Unit remains on standby to assist Jamaica if the situation changes.
The CDERA CU continues to issue SITREPs on Hurricane Ivan, which may be
viewed at www.cdera.org. The UN/CHA Reliefweb service is also posting
SITREPs at www.reliefweb.int.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jeremy Collymore
Coordinator, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386
Donovan Gentles
Preparedness and Response Manager
Tel: (246) 425-0386
Terry Ally
Public Education and Information Specialist
Tel: (246) 425-0386
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