Overview
“You seh mi a Young Bud, Mi nuh know Staam” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
The Atlantic Hurricane Season spans from June 1 to November 30th. Jamaica is situated in the Central Caribbean Sea, which is part of the Atlantic Hurricane Belt. Our little island has seen its fair share of storms and devastation over the years. Last year, we were rocked by Hurricane Beryl, which was the earliest category 5 hurricane of record in the Atlantic basin. Here is an idea of the damage done to Jamaica by Beryl:
- A few Jamaicans died as a result of the Hurricane
- Over 300,000 Jamaicans lost power due to downed utility poles and power lines
- Several roads became impassable because of fallen trees, landslides, and flooding, isolating several communities and complicating relief efforts.
- Hurricane Beryl was estimated at $32.2 billion or 1.1 per cent of gross domestic product.
- Due to the Agricultural Devastation(particularly in St. Elizabeth), we suffered from an egg shortage. I noticed eggs disappeared from the supermarket around September 2024. I only started seeing eggs reappear a few months ago, in March of this year.
Climate experts have long warned that climate change would lead to stronger, more intense storms. Therefore, Hurricane Beryl’s early formation and rapid intensification were anticipated by many. Hurricanes like Beryl may become the norm going forward. Given our vulnerability, we must prioritize hurricane and storm preparedness moving forward.
Evacuation Plan & Emergency Numbers
“Mi Nevah See Dis From I was Baan. Gilbert Tek Weh Mi Roof an Gaan.” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
Always have an emergency evacuation plan, especially if you live in flood prone areas. Knowing if you will head to a local shelter or a family member’s house is imperative. If your community is prone to flooding, it’s wise to seek shelter early for your safety. Shelters are typically Primary and Secondary schools, Churches, Community Centers, and Municipal buildings. You can find your nearest shelter by visiting the ODPEM Shelter Portal.
When heading to a hurricane shelter, it’s crucial to pack essential items that can sustain you for at least 72 hours. Start with personal identification, important documents in a waterproof pouch, some cash, your phone with a charger or power bank, and a basic first-aid kit. Medications, face masks, and hand sanitizer should also be included, along with toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, tissue, and sanitary products. Pack at least one change of clothes, a towel, a light blanket, and comfortable shoes to help maintain hygiene and comfort.
Non-perishable food items like canned goods, crackers, or granola bars, along with at least one gallon of water per person per day, are essential. Bring a flashlight with extra batteries, a whistle for emergencies, and any necessary items for children, babies, or people with disabilities, such as diapers, wipes, formula, mobility aids, or glasses. If pets are allowed at your shelter, remember to bring their food and supplies too. Proper preparation helps reduce stress during a disaster and ensures your safety and well-being while sheltering.
Securing The Home
“Yuh See Mi Fridge? A Gilbert Gimmi! Yuh See Mi Colour TV? A Gilbert Gimmi! Yuh See Mi New Stereo? A Gilbert Gimmi! Yuh See Mi New Video? A Gilbert Gimmi!” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
Many people are forced to leave their homes during hurricanes, which unfortunately creates opportunities for thieves. Returning to find valuables missing is a far too common experience in the aftermath of a hurricane. This makes it crucial to properly secure your home before evacuating. From locking all entry points to safeguarding important belongings, taking the right precautions can help reduce your risk. I recently wrote an article titled Securing Your Home that offers practical tips to strengthen your home’s security, whether during hurricane season or throughout the year.
Power Banks
“Light Gaan, Di Whole Place Dawk, Mi Neighbah Bad Dawg Stop Bawk” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
Electricity is often one of the first services disrupted during a storm, making it difficult to stay connected. Communication with family, friends, and emergency services becomes critical during these times, especially for receiving updates or calling for help. This is why having a power bank is essential. Power banks act as portable battery packs that can charge your phone and other small devices when the power is out.
When fully charged in advance, a good-quality power bank can provide multiple charges for your devices, helping you stay informed and in contact even during prolonged outages. Investing in one before a storm can make a significant difference in your ability to communicate and access emergency information. Depending on the number of family members you have, it would be best to acquire a range of power banks.
A Power Bank for your phone – The VEEKTOMX Power Bank can charge several devices simultaneously, and it comes with 4 built-in charging cables: USB A, Type C, iPhone, and Micro.
A Power Bank For Your Laptop – The MARBERO Portable Power Station is small and power-packed. This is great for a person who uses their laptop for entertainment during a Hurricane. You can also purchase a Solar Panel separately!
A Power Station for your Fridge – The Jackery Power Station can run your Fridge for over 10 hours. This will keep meats and other goods from spoiling. Charging is as easy as plugging it into the wall. Alternatively, you could buy the version that comes with a Solar Panel.
Water Storage
“Wata Come Innah Mi Room, Mi Sweep Out Some Wid Di Broom” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
Access to clean water is one of the most critical needs during and after a hurricane. Storms can disrupt the regular water supply due to damage to infrastructure, contamination, or power outages affecting water pumps. That’s why it’s essential to store enough safe drinking water ahead of time. The general recommendation is at least one gallon of water per person per day, for a minimum of three days. This includes water for drinking, basic hygiene, and limited cooking.
Use clean, sealed containers such as food-grade plastic jugs or water storage drums, and keep them in a cool, dark place. If you’re reusing bottles, make sure to wash them thoroughly and sanitize them before filling. It’s also helpful to fill bathtubs and buckets for non-drinking purposes like flushing toilets or washing. Having a reliable water supply on hand ensures that you and your family can stay hydrated and maintain basic sanitation until normal services are restored.
Large black drums are a common and practical method for storing backup water, especially during the hurricane season. Blue plastic drums, which are also widely used for water storage, can be purchased from vendors along the popular Spanish Town Road. Many households also rely on smaller containers like buckets to store water for basic daily use. The key is to choose a combination of storage options that fits your household’s needs, whether for drinking, cooking, or sanitation. Ensuring you have a well-planned water storage system in place can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety during and after a hurricane.
The more water you have, the better. Fill Water bottles and well, any reasonable container you can find. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under prepared.
Light in the Dark
“Breeze A Blow, Rain A Come Dung” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
The Jamaica Public Service(JPS) may opt to turn off power if the hurricane force winds get too strong. As such, alternative lighting sources are essential during power outages. While it may be tempting to use candles or lanterns, these are not recommended due to the high risk of fire.
Last year, a tragic news story emerged from Westmoreland, where two young boys lost their lives in a devastating house fire. The suspected cause of the blaze was an unattended candle.
Open flames can easily tip over or catch nearby items, creating dangerous situations in already stressful conditions. Instead, opt for safer options such as battery-powered flashlights, LED lanterns, or solar-powered lights. These provide reliable illumination without the risk of starting a fire, helping to keep your household safe as you navigate the dark.
Here are some alternative lighting sources that can be used while the power is out:
Rechargeable Light Bulbs – What if you could unscrew your light bulb, press a button to power it on, and walk around with it in your hand? With the GE LED+ Backup Battery LED Light Bulbs, you certainly can! This lightbulb charges once the light switch is turned on.
Rechargeable Lantern Flashlight – The Consciot Portable Torch serves as a lantern, power bank, and emergency light.
Emergency Kits & More
“Gilbert Blow and ah Pure Tree drop. Him Blow weh Missa Chin, Grocery Shop!” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
Accidents and minor injuries are more likely to occur during a hurricane due to high winds, flying debris, flooding, or even during last-minute preparations. A well-stocked medical kit ensures you can quickly treat cuts, bruises, or other injuries when professional help is not immediately available. Your kit should include essentials like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, tweezers, gauze, and any necessary prescription medications.
In addition to first aid, staying informed is equally important. Power and internet services are often disrupted during storms, making a battery-powered or hand-crank radio an invaluable tool. It allows you to receive real-time updates from local authorities, including emergency instructions, weather alerts, and relief efforts. Together, a medical kit and a reliable radio help you stay prepared, safe, and connected in the face of uncertainty.
Emergency First Aid Kit: This First Aid kit comes with 300 pieces! It has everything from bandages to gauze.
Battery-Powered Radio: A simple battery-powered radio can keep you connected during the hurricane.
Proper Preparation is Key
“Well Gilbert yuh gone, HaHa. Now we can chat behind yuh back” – Lovindeer in Wild Gilbert
When it comes to hurricanes, it’s always better to overprepare than to be caught off guard. Throughout this article, I’ve covered the key items and strategies that can help you stay safe, informed, and as comfortable as possible during a hurricane. One of the most critical steps is ensuring that all essential medications, especially for children or anyone with chronic conditions, are purchased in advance. The last thing you want is to face a medical emergency, such as an asthma attack, without the necessary supplies on hand.
In recent years, we’ve even seen people using their electric vehicles to power parts of their homes during blackouts, highlighting a growing trend in emergency preparedness. While not every household may have access to this kind of technology, it underscores the importance of thinking ahead and making investments where possible. In addition to stocking up on food, water, and power supplies, it’s wise to secure basic rain protection like umbrellas and raincoats, and to fix any known leaks around the home before the season starts. Even simple measures like sealing windows or clearing drains can go a long way in minimizing damage and stress. Look around your house for trees that may fall and cut them down ahead of time.
You will need to keep yourself occupied while the power is out. This may be a good time for some board games, such as UNO, Dominoes, Ludi or the Jamaican Board Game – Guess Wah. As long as you aren’t under dire constraints, this time could be used for family bonding or reading books.
After the storm has passed, it’s important to remain cautious and alert. Avoid rushing outside until authorities confirm it’s safe to do so, as there may still be dangerous conditions like downed power lines, flooded roads, or unstable structures. Inspect your home carefully for damage, paying attention to potential hazards such as gas leaks, exposed wiring, or weakened roofs and walls.
Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards, and only drink water from trusted sources until the supply is confirmed safe. Stay tuned to local news or official channels for updates, relief efforts, and curfew notices. If you evacuated, return home only when given the all-clear by emergency services. Taking a careful, informed approach after the storm helps protect you and your family during the recovery process.
In true Jamaican fashion, I figured the best way to end this article is with a true Jamaican Classic – Wild Gilbert by Lovindeer.
Note Well: The author uses affiliate links in this article. He may earn a commission from these links if you select and purchase items from them.
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