- Updates from the Islands -

- - Jamaica - -

• From: <henrique AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Sat, 9 Oct 2004 08:42:27 -0400

Gert, something is wrong with my computer,I can only send replys...sorry

Well, Jamaica is now licking its wounds.
Today is the first day without torrential rains. We will be able to
start to clean up. I even saw one very, very little bit of sun.
The birds are coming back and last night I geard the first whistling
frogs again.
Well if nature starts to sing and make familiar sounds again, normality
is returning.
All in all we had a lot of good luck because of the eye not passing us.
But it is still more than we will be able to handle alone.
I think the worst is the water which came with Ivan.
Flooding is unreal.
We were just able to make contact with the parish of St Elizabeth.
It is a bad, bad scene.
They got hit hard, the parish is not accessible, every where is flooded.
Communication is out because the cell towers eventually ran out of power
(they apparently work on massive batteries that store power, please
don't ask me for details because I don't understand that technology)
All rivers have flowed over their banks heavily and destroyed almost all
cultivation including the hardy sugar cane that normally can take a lot.
Lifestock that drowned will have to be removed fast.

So, if you cannot get in touch with relatives in St. Elizabeth you know
the reason. Don't worry too much, they may have lost communications but
that doesn't mean that they are harmed.

In general the loss of lives is minimal (although we have not heard from
all areas but I am sure we would have heard about fatalities...those
news travel fast one way or the other)
Remember how resilient we are in jamaica and one person will help the
other somehow.

Unfortunately it is true that looting takes place not only in Kingston.
We knew that before because we have a small percentage of criminals that
are evil. 
Those are the same persons who give us the bad reputation all over the
world. Organized crime.
If they went with the storm, nobody here would shed a tear.
I know I shouldn't probably make such a statement but it makes all of us
furious to have such elements in our beautiful country.
But they are a small group that will hopefully be weeded out soon.

The police, thank God , takes a no nonsense approach with them and the
Public Emergency which has been implemented on Friday for a month will
help.
That was a sound decision by our Government.
In general, the Government has done a fine job, if everybody had
followed their advice, a lot could have been prevented. But that's "how
it go". Some people will always know better..... 

All you relatives abroad need to help your families to get back on their
feet.
It will be very difficult in the next couple of months because damage to
homes and agriculture is very, very bad. 
Schools will be out for some time.

But as I said already the widespread flooding will be our most severe
problem.

According to Digicel they will get as soon as possible to their towers
to restore communications.
C&W exchange was flooded in Mandeville they therefore had to shut down
in order to protect their equipment. They as well are working hard to
restore lost communications.

Basically the same picture is in the parish of Clarendon.
Massive, massive flooding.

Private construction companies are now asked to make heavy duty
equipment available to clear roads.

We will pick up the pieces and if you hear horror reports..please take
them with a pinch of salt, it is not as bad as it sounds but the media
have to live.

As usual the poorest here have been hit hardest and will need all our
help.
That is where all of you jamaicans abroad come in.

My heart goes out to Cayman and I pray for them.

P.S. the airports are open and Air Jamaica starts flying today.
London, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, other airlines start to come as well.  

Barbara Henriques

• From: <lyons AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 24 Sep 2004 15:55:58 -0500

Hello from Sunny Jamaica. It is two weeks later and it is the first time I have 
been able to e-mail. We just now got our electricity back. It was pretty 
terrible but all was well in my yard. All the buildings survived without 
damage. The garden however... did not. It is gone. No leaves. No trees. It is 
very sad but it will come back. As a matter of fact, it is already. The area 
has made a lot of progress and phone, water and electricity are back to about 
75% of my area.  It has been very hot here since the storm - I guess it is 
because all the leaves are gone but...soon come, mon. Later. 
Ann Lyons
Culloden Dist. 
Whitehouse, Westmoreland

• From: "Andre Marriott-Blake" <sean134 AT msn.com>
• Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2004 01:44:06 +0000

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Wed, 22 Sep 2004 20:55:49 -0400 (EDT)

Date: Wed, 22 Sep 2004 16:56:02 -0700 (PDT)
From: Edson Brown <colorapx_AT_yahoo.com>

I am asking kindly if you could give some help to affected person who has
been affected by the recent hurricane that destroy persons in Jamaica
causing destruction of house, flooding and damages to properties.

A fund has been set up to asst person who has been affected which is at
the Victoria Building Society NU# 10213080.

Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you



The Victoria Mutual Building Society is a Jamaican financial institution,
mutually owned by its savers. There main objective is to provide
Jamaicans with the best facilities for savings and home loans. There
savings, investments and mortgage loan accounts are maintained in
Jamaican dollars, British Pounds Sterling, United States or Canadian
dollars.

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sat, 18 Sep 2004 16:55:56 -0400 (EDT)

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/fromthefield/109543946484.htm

RED CROSS SAYS: 'DON'T FORGET THE CARIBBEAN' AS HURRICANE IVAN HITS
AMERICA
17 Sep 2004 16:36:00 GMT

Source: NGO latest


British Red Cross Society - UK
Website: http://www.redcross.org.uk/caribbeanappeal
For further information: Contact Will Slater/Clare Finnigan 020 7201
5016/7

RED CROSS SAYS: 'DON'T FORGET THE CARIBBEAN' AS HURRICANE IVAN HITS
AMERICA

As Hurricane Ivan moves across the United States the Red Cross is urging
people not to forget the devastation caused across the Caribbean, leaving
tens of thousands of people homeless and thousands of buildings destroyed.

Philippe Puyo-Tschanz, Americas desk officer at the British Red Cross
said: "Despite the image of the Caribbean as an exclusive holiday
destination, many of the people who live there are actually very poor and
this hurricane has destroyed their homes and their livelihoods.

"While there is no doubt that America has been badly hit, they have the
infrastructure and resources to cope better and recover more quickly.
However, people in the Caribbean will still be dealing with the
consequences of this disaster for years to come. The Red Cross is running
a massive emergency operation to assist 85,000 people over the next six
months and we need the public's support to help us provide this aid."

With thousands of homes completely destroyed, and water and electricity
supplies disrupted, the Red Cross has been at the centre of aid efforts to
help communities recover from the emergency.

Grenada

A British Red Cross logistics team has been based in Grenada since the
hurricane hit the island. The three person team have been receiving relief
supplies that have been sent to Grenada since the 12 September. The Red
Cross has already distributed 2,000 tarpaulins to help people carry out
repairs to their homes, and 2,080 hygiene kits have been distributed to
ensure the health needs of people whilst repairs are carried out to the
damaged water supply. It is estimated that 60,000 of the islands 90,000
inhabitants have been made homeless.

In some parts of the island there is a scarcity of food and the Grenada
Red Cross have been carrying distributions of food to 300 households a day
since 13 September. Each household receives rice, red beans, oil and sugar
to cover their needs until a large-scale food distribution to 10,000
people can be carried out this weekend.

The logistics team in Grenada is led by Richard North, he said: "When we
first arrived people were in shock and really traumatised. However, there
are many more people out and about, trying to repair roofs or clear the
streets of debris."

He added: "The main problem is the availability of drinking water, people
in some places have taken to drinking from the rivers. However the water
companies say that they will be able to restore most of the water supply
by Sunday."

Jamaica

The Jamaican Red Cross (JRC) is supporting a total of 15,000 people who
have lost their homes and possessions. The JRC is responsible for managing
100 community shelters that have been opened in the south west of the
island and have been distributing blankets, food and hygiene kits to
people taking refuge there. They have also deployed psychological support
teams to provide assistance and counselling to people living in the
shelters.

The British Red Cross sent a logistics expert to the island on the 14
September to help receive incoming aid flights and locate warehouses for
relief supplies.

Cayman Islands

A Red Cross plane of relief items will arrive in the Cayman Islands today.
The plane will be carrying 2,300 blankets, 900 hygiene kits, plastic
sheeting and kitchen sets to meet the immediate needs of people living in
shelters or whose homes have been partially destroyed.

The Cayman Red Cross have already distributed relief supplies that were
pre-positioned on the island as part of their disaster preparedness plans.
Stocks of blankets, plastic sheeting and wheelbarrows to assist in the
clear up were distributed in the immediate aftermath of the hurricane. A
British Red Cross delegate has also been sent to the island to help the
Cayman Red Cross assess what aid supplies will be needed in the coming
weeks.

The British Red Cross is running an appeal to help people affected by the
hurricane. People can donate to the Caribbean Hurricane Appeal by calling
0870 169 9191 of by writing to Caribbean Hurricane Appeal, British Red
Cross, FREEPOST, London, SW1X 7BR.


*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Fri, 17 Sep 2004 20:34:41 GMT

ISSUED BY:  Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE:  September 17, 2004
TIME:  4:00 pm

Jamaica identifies relief needs

Barbados, Sep 17, 2004 (CDERA) – The Office of Disaster Preparedness and 
Emergency Management (ODPEM) has issued a preliminary needs list to guide 
relief assistance. Preliminary assessments seem to indicate that the damage is 
not as severe and immediate concerns relate to public health, vector control 
and providing relief to victims. Mr. Jeremy Collymore, Coordinator CDERA CU is 
currently in Jamaica to assess the situation and to hold talks with the donor 
agencies.

Hurricane Ivan, impacted Jamaica September 10-12 leaving a trail of damage 
across several communities.


Needs List
        
Cash    
Zinc                                    5000,000 sheets (Provisional estimate 
only)
Lumber                                  1 x 3 feet, 2 x 4 feet, 2 x 6 feet
Galvanised Zinc Nails 2.5in, 3in.       35,000lbs
Assorted Nails                          40,000lbs
Rechargeable Lanterns                   50
Five (5) and two (2) Gallon 
Containers (collapsible)                8,000
Generators                              7x110v, 50 cycles, 10kva
Plastic Canvas                          1500
Plastic Sheeting                        70 rolls
Family Tents                            500
Cots (adults)                           500
Blankets                                2,000
Baby mattresses                         500
Baby blankets                           500
Portable Toilets                        10
2 Burner Gas Stoves                     100
        
        
MEDICATION      
Augumentin (injectables)                100.00
Augumentin (capsules)                   100.00
Augumentin (suspension)                 50.00
Amoxicillin (injectables)               100.00
Amoxicillin (capsules)                  100.00
Amoxicillin (suspension)                50.00
Gentanycin injection                    20.00
Metronidazole injection                 20.00
Salbutamol solution                     5000 mls
Normal saline solution
(for use with salbutamol solution)      7000 mls
Ipratropium bromide 
inhalation solution                     5000 mls
        
        
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH    
Rodenticide                             100 pails
95% Malathion                           20 drums
Half face respirators                   200 
Abate (sand granules) 
1% 25 kilos per bag                     50 bags

Fogging machines                        15

Spray pumps (hand 
operated pressurized 14 litres up)      20
Altosid (methoprene 
for mosquito control)                   25 bags
Comparators                             25
        
OTHER PUBLIC HEALTH 
(communicable disease)  
Stool jars                              5,000
Dry Swabs                               3,000
Disposable gloves                       1,000 pairs
Gauze pads                              1,000
Micropore tape                          1,000


Updated reports on the impact on Jamaica may be read at www.cdera.org.


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

• From: "Millwood" <david AT millwoodindustries.com>
• Date: Fri, 17 Sep 2004 09:40:25 -0400

Living in Jamaica for the last 8 years now, we have had a few very near
misses and after awhile one begins to get very complacent and in fact
quite nonchalant about being so lucky......well needless to say, I think
that that attitude will change from now on....well at least for a few
years:)...the clean up process for me has pretty much been all done
now...all the trees have been cut up and the yard cleaned up....a
tarpaulin is still covering a section of the roof that got damaged by
the wind.....the satellite dish is back up and running and of course
tuned permanently on The Weather Chanel and CNN for all the hurricane
updates...we truly were spared from the big hit and we can thank God for
that and all the millions of people praying for us....I think somebody
from CNN said something like it seemed like there was an invisible
barrier protecting us from the storm....I'll tell you what that
was...the mighty hand of God!!

I know thousands of other residents here were not as fortunate as me and
have lost everything to Ivan....the agriculture sector has suffered a
big blow...bannanas especially , the plants are so fragile and only 80
mile and hour winds will do major damage to them.....fortunately though,
living in the middle of a town here in St. Thomas, we should be getting
back light hopefully as soon as today....in fact, just spoke to somebody
and light will be here in a few hours...I am so proud of the community
here in Morant Bay where we have all pulled together....got the main
road temporarily repaired with huge boulders to fill in back the gaping
spaces where Ivan hungrily devoured out  a 1/4 mile of the road....we
cannot simply sit back and wait for the government to do
everything....thanks again to all for your prayers and well wishes....I
hope I will not have to write again here for a very long
time...Hurricane Gilbert was here in 88...hmmmmmm....so it was almost 16
years to the day...well see you in 16 years....I have a feeling
not.....till then...take care and God bless.....

D. Williams
Morant Bay






































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• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 21:32:44 -0400 (EDT)

Source: Travel Weekly's Caribbean E-Letter - http://travelweekly.com

Sept. 16, 2004

HURRICANE IVAN ripped through the Caribbean last weekend and is scheduled
to make landfall somewhere along the Gulf Coast today. Tropical storm
Jeanne, nearing hurricane strength, eyed the northeastern Caribbean on
Wednesday. Meanwhile, relief efforts are underway for the Cayman Islands,
Grenada and Jamaica; information is posted on each destination's Web
site: www.caymanislands.ky; www.grenadagrenadines.com; and
www.visitjamaica.com. In addition, the Caribbean Tourism Organization
[www.onecaribbean.org] and the Caribbean Hotel Association
[www.caribbeanhotels.org] have spearheaded relief efforts. Caribbean Star
Airlines launched an initiative with a number of musicians who recorded a
song dedicated to Grenada; proceeds from the sales of the CD and $2 from
each Caribbean Star ticket sold in the next two months will be earmarked
for Grenada relief. Cayman Airways is operating emergency relief flights
on a limited basis into Grand Cayman; Air Jamaica flew 30,000 pounds of
supplies into Kingston, Jamaica, on a special relief flight Sept. 13. The
airport there, as well as in Montego Bay, Jamaica, is open for business.
HERE'S A PARTIAL RECAP throughout the region:

i Jamaica. The cruise ports in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios reopened Sept.
15, and the cruise schedule will be back to normal next week. Air Jamaica
extended its deadline for penalty-free reticketing due to Hurricane Ivan
to Sept. 30. Damage reports reveal that resorts in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios
and Port Antonio -- all on Jamaica's north coast -- weathered the storm
well. The Sandals properties and Beaches Boscobel are open or will be by
Sept. 18. Ritz-Carlton, Round Hill, and Sunset Beach Resort & Spa are
open; Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios will reopen as planned on Dec.
19 after new owners complete a major renovation. Half Moon Montego Bay
will proceed as planned with its 50th anniversary celebrations Sept. 26
to Oct. 3. Sandals Negril, Beaches Negril and Beaches Sandy Bay reopen
Oct. 1; Sunset at the Palms, Negril will reopen on schedule in November
after planned renovations. SuperClubs' Grand Lido Braco and Hedonism II
reopen Sept. 19; Grand Lido Negril, which had severe roof damage, reopens
Oct. 1; Couples Resorts in Negril reopens Sept. 19.

*
**
*** Gert van Dijken ( gert@vandijken.com )
**** Caribbean Hurricane Network - http://stormcarib.com/

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 16:49:19 GMT

ISSUED BY:  Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE:  September 16, 2004
TIME:  12:00 pm

Jamaica assessing damage

Barbados, Sep 16, 2004 (CDERA) – Damage assessment teams have been deployed 
throughout the country to assess the impact of Hurricane Ivan.  House to house 
assessment is being conducted by Interagency teams to ascertain the extent of 
damage and level of assistance that will be required. Registration Centres have 
also been opened island wide for victims to register.  Jamaica was battered by  
Hurricane Ivan as it passed South of the Island, September 10-12. 

Situation Update 
The Office of Disaster Prepardeness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) reported 
that 207 communities in 11 parishes were affected and 19,000 persons were still 
in shelters. Efforts are being made to reduce the numbers of persons in the 
shelters and to find alternative accommodation for those housed in schools.

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) continues to coordinate relief 
and recovery efforts. Food supply air lifts have been organized to communities 
severely affected and cut off. These communities included St. Ann’s Bay, Aenon 
Town,  Penline Castle, and Morant Bay. A voucher system has also been 
established to enable victims access to relief supplies. These vouchers can be 
redeemed at designated stores. 

Power has been restored to critical areas such as the Kingston & Jubilee 
Hospital, Sangster’s International Airport and water pumping stations at Mona, 
Hope Road in Kingston and Great River, Montego Bay. Full restoration of power 
may take some time due to the extent of damage to the system.  Several areas 
are still without potable water and this is primarily due  to lack of 
electricity operate the pumps. Trucks are supplying water to priority areas and 
facilities.

Relief assistance in-cash and in kind contributions have been received from 
regional and international agencies. The Red Cross has incoming relief supplies 
valued at US$348,458. OCHA will provide a cash grant and a Norwegian cash grant 
of USD50,000 each. The Government of Japan will contribute emergency supplies 
(tents, electric generators, plastic sheets, sleeping mats and blankets) 
equivalent to approximately JPY12.2 M (USD111,000).

The European Union has indicated its readiness to provide support as needs are 
identified.

CDERA Coordinator Mr. Jeremy Collymore is scheduled to hold discussions with 
officials in Jamaica on the current situation, today September 16, 2004. 


The CDERA CU continues to issue SITREPs on post impact situation which may be 
viewed at www.cdera.org. The UN/OCHA 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 & Response Manager, CDERA
Tel:  (246) 425-0386

Terry Ally
Public Education and Information Specialist
Tel:  (246) 425-0386

• From: "Corinne Smith" <corinne AT smithwarner.com>
• Date: Thu, 16 Sep 2004 10:40:14 -0500

Hi all,

First off I must commend C&W (and I've NEVER done that before) for
keeping the phone lines functional before, during and after Ivan. It was
a tremendous relief to be able to remain in touch with family and
friends. Power and water seem to be slowly returning to a few areas in
and around Kingston, and for a lucky few of us, life is returning to
normal. Unfortunately, the west and south coasts of Jamaica did not get
off as lightly as we did here.

Regards,
Corinne Smith

• From: "Carell Chin" <johns3girls AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 21:17:45 +0000

Hi:

I am writing from Kingston Jamaica.  We are basically trying to rebuild 
after Ivan.  Quite a few schools have been damaged and the parents and 
teachers are assisting with this. The Ministry of Education had said that 
schools should reopen on the 14th September but with 90% of the island 
without electricity and water that would have been impossible.  Majority of 
the schools will reopen on Monday.

There was and still is a lot of looting and robbery going on.  The police 
are trying to put an end to this though.  The Prime Minister had called a 
state of emergency before the hurricane in order to curtail looting, this 
helped somewhat, but as always some people can be heartless.

A lot of people came out and helped their neighbours in their time or 
trouble and this must be commended.  The police did their part too.  There 
was a report of some policemen delivering a baby, and another about 
policemen who helped an old lady take down her awnings before the hurricane 
on Friday.

The palisadoes road was cleared from about Sunday and the airport is now 
open.  The Mayor of Kingston has been doing a great job and the JPS and NWC 
team should be commended for their work.  There is a lot to tell, both good 
and bad but there is not enough space.  Majority of the people have proven 
however that we are "out of many, one people".

Carell

_________________________________________________________________
Get ready for school! Find articles, homework help and more in the Back to 
School Guide! http://special.msn.com/network/04backtoschool.armx

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 18:28:59 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Tourism Organisation
DATE: September 14, 2004

The following release is distributed as a courtesy by the Caribbean Disaster 
Emergency Response Agency.


STATEMENT BY THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION (CTO) ON THE IMPACT OF 
HURRICANE IVAN ON CTO MEMBER STATES

 

Sept. 14, 2004 12:00 p.m.- Here is the latest information on CTO member 
countries impacted by Hurricanes as of noon today.

 
CAYMAN ISLANDS
 
The Dept. of Tourism offices on Grand Cayman were severely damaged and remain 
closed. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are in good shape and have mobilized to 
help relief efforts for Grand Cayman. Road networks are intact, but some are 
still obstructed

Cayman Airways, the national airline, has been coordinating emergency flights 
into Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac from Houston, Tampa and Miami. Cayman Airways 
flights will take US citizens back to the United States on these emergency 
flights. 

Owen Roberts International Airport is open for restricted flights only and 
Cayman Airways has cancelled all of its commercial flights through the end of 
the day Wednesday due to the closure of the Owen Roberts International Airport. 
The airline says it is evaluating the situation and will resume operation as 
soon as it is safe and possible to do so.

Cayman Bracs Gerrard Smith International Airport is open for restricted flights 
only. 

Cell phones are working, although the volume of calls makes if difficult to 
make contact as circuits are almost permanently busy. Land phone lines remain 
down, but the telephone company, Cable and Wireless is reporting that its core 
network systems for fixed lines for local and international calling and its 
mobile service are up and running.

The Department of Tourism has set up Cayman Islands Hurricane Relief Fund.  The 
account number is 621506296065 with Chase Manhattan Banks.  The wiring 
instructions follow:  JPMorgan Chase Bank, 60 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 
10165,. ABA # 021000021. Swift Code for international use only: CHASUS33

GRENADA

The airport is functional with air traffic control, Customs and Immigration in 
place. Air Jamaica, Air Caribes, LIAT and Caribbean Star have restarted limited 
service. LIAT CEO Gary Cullen has told CTO that the regional carrier is putting 
on four scheduled daily flights from Port of Spain, Barbados and St. Vincent 
into Grenada.  

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA) has advised that until 
the runway lights can be restored, air transport is limited to daylight 
operation. Also, there is still no public ground transport, such as taxis or 
buses, at the airport.

 
JAMAICA

The Port Authority of Jamaica has advised CTO that the port sustained minimal 
damage and both the Montego Bay and Ocho Rios cruise ports will reopen today. 

The first cruise ship since the passage of Hurricane Ivan, a vessel from 
Princess Cruises, is expected to dock at Montego Bay tomorrow. The Port 
Authority is expecting word later today on whether or not Royal Caribbean will 
call in Ocho Rios tomorrow.   The cruise schedule will be back to normal next 
week.

Couples Resorts has informed CTO that its Resort in Negril will not be 
accepting any new arrivals until Sunday 19th September at the earliest.

Couples Resorts has indicated that its Hurricane Policy is as follows 

1. On property guests: If guests feel the need to leave, we will either refund 
them for their unused portion of their stay OR issue a credit for travel up to 
one year for the number of nights interrupted. 

2. Arriving Guests: In the event that guests are unable to arrive as scheduled, 
we will offer them the following options: 

A. They can arrive after the storm passes. Either for the same number of 
nights, in which case, we will make every effort to confirm the dates and 
categories, but guarantee no (hotel) rate increase - OR - stay for fewer 
nights, in which case they will be refunded for the interrupted nights. 

B. We will issue a full credit for travel up to one year. We will guarantee the 
rate paid, regardless of the season they travel except for the following 
blackouts dates: 

All Resorts: December 25, 2004 - January 2, 2005, February 10 - 22, 2005, June 
30 - July 11, 2005 
Plus: Couples Ocho Rios January 15 - 23, 2005 
Couples Negril/ Couples Swept Away (Negril) Oct 7-10, 2004 and Oct 6 - 9, 2005 

C. Full refunds will be allowed if, at resort discretion, a decision is made to 
close the resorts to any new arrivals. The refund will apply during the closed 
period.

• From: Kerry-Ann Morris <knmorris2002 AT yahoo.com>
• Date: Wed, 15 Sep 2004 07:59:33 -0700 (PDT)

• From: "Joan Sam" <jsam AT voa-gny.org>
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 15:31:30 -0400

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 00:08:43 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Mon, 13 Sep 2004 00:00:51 -0400
From: ORINTHIA MARKS <omarks@rogers.com>
To: Gert van Dijken <gert@vandijken.com>
Subject: Re: HEARD FROM SISTER IN SANTA CRUZ

Hey Gert,
I must tell you how thankful I am and I know everyone else using your site.
You are a "good samaritan" and will be blessed for providing this service
unselfishly.

I heard from my sister again just within the hour and was about to put
together an email for you.
She says that St. Elizabeth as a whole was severely damaged. The extent of
the damage is not known but she says because the Eye of the storm passed
just south of them they really got pounded. They began getting the wind
since 3:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon and the rain only stopped at 4:00 p.m.
this afternoon.
She hasn't heard of flooding in Santa Cruz.The town doesn't usually get the
floods however in the Southfield and Treasure Beach they are bad and were
just affected by Charley as well.
Black River 40% of homes damaged. The sea came up to street level and into
businesses. For those who know Black River they can picture the areas that
would have been included in this description. Very sad.
Many homes and buildings without entire roofs including her very close
friend (Binns) in Goshen area.  There is ankle deep water in her house.

My sister says that she cannot get through on her cell phone to anyone so
it's difficult to hear about other areas.

STETHS (high school in Santa) lost some of its roof.
Burnt Ground and areas next to it very bad as well.
She says she doesn't know how they are going to clear all the trees as it
seems every one was fallen. Every leave ripped from those still standing.
Devastation indeed.

Will keep you posted on news I hear.

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 16:27:00 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 13:18:19 -0700
From: TBNet Webmaster <webmaster@treasurebeach.net>
Subject: Report from a Treasure Beach Resident (Jamaica)

--
TreasureBeach.Net just got our first report from someone in Treasure
Beach, St Elizabeth.
http://treasurebeach.net/discus/messages/1584/2400.html

Overall, everyone is OK, but there is a report of a death. There is
massive damage, but the residents are in good spirits and helping each
other.

You can see all the messages posted in the last 24 hours here:
http://treasurebeach.net/cgi-bin/discus/search.pl


We'll be updating TBNet as more info comes in.
--

-Eric
webmaster
http://treasurebeach.net

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 17:17:00 GMT

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

• From: ORINTHIA MARKS <omarks AT rogers.com>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 12:12:53 -0400

Hi Gert,
I couldn't get this posted so maybe you can.
I have just spoken to my sister in Santa Cruz. The cell phones are back.
Severe damage in Santa Cruz area and Goshen so far as she can see. She is
on her way to the south. Lots of homes without roofs but people are
helping each other. No mention of flooding but most light poles down and
they were driving from Santa Cruz in a SE direction. She said that Goshen
is very badly damaged. I will send out more information as I get it
 

• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 11:49:34 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 19:28:18 -0700
From: Carmen Padgett
Subject: Ivan Moves Across Jamaica  - The Jamaica Observer

Here is a link to The Jamaica Observer.  It provides some update information as 
well as photographs.
Prayers and Blessings to all that have been affected.

Carmen


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/html/20040911T130000-0500_66022_OBS_IVAN_MOVES_ACROSS_JAMAICA.asp

• From: " George Scarlett" <george.scarlett AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Sun, 12 Sep 2004 06:50:09 -0500

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 19:42:48 -0400

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 17:58:17 -0400

• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 17:07:50 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: September 11, 2004
TIME: 11.00am

Ivan impacts Jamaica
        
Hurricane Ivan began impacting Jamaica yesterday morning and at 11.00a.m today 
the system, a category 4 hurricane is still doing so. The island was spared the 
full impact of the storm as the eye passed along the South-West Coast of the 
island. 
The system is slowly moving away from the island and strong winds are likely to 
continue for several hours. 


THE SITUATION
The National Disaster Office has informed the CDERA Coordinating Unit of the 
following:

1.      Approximately 10,000 persons weathered the storm in 285 shelters

2.      Power and water supply were shut down for safety

3.      Telephone service is still functioning

4.      International support teams from OFDA, UNDAC and IFRC were 
pre-positioned in Jamaica for rapid response if necessary

5.      An initial assessment will be conducted after the all clear is issued.


ACTIONS BY COORDINATING UNIT:

The Regional Response Mechanism is currently activated and the Caribbean 
Disaster Response Unit (CDRU) team remains on standby. 

The CDERA CU continues to issue SITREPs on Hurricane Ivan which may be viewed 
at www.cdera.org.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Jeremy Collymore
Coordinator, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386

Donovan Gentles
Preparedness & Response Manager, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386

Terry Ally
Public Education & Information Specialist, CDERA
Tel: (246) 425-0386

• From: "marjorie-ann knight" <knightmja AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 15:10:44 +0000

Hi Gert,

My name is Marjorie Knight and I am in Cambridge Ontario in Canada.  I just 
got off the phone with my sister in Kingston, just off Hope road near 
Campion College.  They survived the night, it was scary, no trees left 
standing in their yard, fortunately, the trees fell away from the house.  
Ihave had word from family from different points in Kingston, red hills 
road, up near Stella Maris school, up in stony Hill- golden grove I think it 
is.  They are all fine, they have some damage, but are fine.  There are 
unconfirmed reports of 2 (two) deaths so far.

They have not been able to get thru to family in Mavis bank, as the road 
past papine is totally blocked by downed power lines and posts.  The cell 
phones are out, so they have not been able to contact any one that side.

We continue to wait.  Power 106 was a rock for us expatriates all night 
long!!

We continue to Pray many prayers were answered last night, the eye stayed 
away.....now for Cayman!  STAY SAFE!

marjorie

_________________________________________________________________
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• From: Gert van Dijken <gert AT vandijken.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 10:56:38 -0400 (EDT)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 10:51:48 -0400
From: henrique AT cwjamaica.com
Subject: RE: Ivan jamaica


 Somehow we survived and lived through a night of extreme terror.

We went through a day and night of unimaginable fury of nature, words
fail me to describe the experience.
The sounds were as if a jumbo jet takes of and passes 10 m above your
roof.
Because of the slowing forward moving of Ivan we were pounded at 150
miles p.h. for many, many hours more than predicted last night.

Damage is unbelievable.

Shelters are filled with thousands of people, they are running out of
food and the radio stations appeal to citizens as soon as the storm has
passed to donate food to the shelters.
That will not be before this evening.

Somehow phone lines and internet systems have held up.

"Big up" C&W of Jamaica and Digicel.
They can certainly advertise their equipment as hurricane safe.

Right now we don't know if there were casualties as the entire island is
inundated, all roads are blocked, bridges have come down, big areas are
flooded and mud slides are covering large areas.

Some shelters could not stand up to the winds and people had to be
relocated in the height of the storm.
How that was done I don't know as you cannot walk in 150 miles of storm.

Hospitals were damaged and patients had to be relocated in Mobay
Cornwall and Kingston KPH and Jubilee.

The Prime Minister declared Jamaica a national disaster and implemented
a Public Emergency, restricting freedom of movement and assembly.
This is done to protect the citizens from looting.
We are thankful for that as we feel a lot safer this way.

Looting is going on right now but the police is very, very vigilant and
adopts a no nonsense approach, we are thankful for that.

In the height of the storm several heavily armed gangs of criminals were
engaging the security forces in gun battles in Kingston, endangering the
security forces' lives.

The security forces along with the Government agencies did a magnificent
job.

Some areas are simply flattened, the Community of Windsor has not one
roof left, including the church which served as a shelter, people have
nowhere to go and the winds and rain are pounding on.
Almantown in Kingston is flat.

The roads all over the island are inundated, bridges destroyed.
Communities cannot be reached.
Banana plantations are flat, for that matter our "food basket" in
general is destroyed.

Our hearts go out to Cayman and Florida.

Please consider Ivan as the most dangerous storm you can imagine.
Double check your preparations, you will need it.
One word of advice: when people start to feel the terror and fear for
their lives as we have last night, psychology comes into play.
Hold the children tight as they may be scared beyond belief.
Also tempers can flare out of fear, prayers helped us to cope and stay
half way calm and stay together as a group.

By tomorrow we will know more about the damage but I fear it will
resemble Grenada.


Barbara Henriques

• From: "Sue Warnke" <fido1223 AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 02:57:07 -0500

It is almost 3 am and Ivan is still howling out there. We have lost about 8 
trees in our yard and from the reports on the radio, the worst is yet to 
come.  With the eye passing further south than predicted, we will be spared 
some of the strongest winds. Give Thanks!

A lot of people have lost their homes, although I have not heard of any 
casualties. Please keep all of us in your thoughts and prayers and we 
weather this storm tonight.

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• From: "Richard May" <rmay AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Sat, 11 Sep 2004 00:43:24 -0500 (Eastern Standard Time)

• From: "Sue Warnke" <fido1223 AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 21:14:30 -0500

It is getting pretty rough in Upton, which is 3 km south of Ocho Rios. I 
just spoke with a friend who is "roughing it out" on the coast and she said 
it is very windy and they can hear the sea roaring. About 15 minutes ago the 
wind and rain really picked up, although it is so dark it is hard to see 
what is going on out there. Thanks to all who have called and e-mailed. I 
will try to get back to all of you when this is over.  From the looks of the 
radar, the worst is still yet to come. The radio was announcing instances of 
looting in Kingston, Spanish Town and Montego Bay and they are predicting 
that we will be under these storm conditions until tomorrow at 6 pm. This 
will probably be my last post until tomorrow, if we still have phone lines.

Emergency numbers for St. Ann's Bay and surrounding areas are:
Red Cross: 972-1938
Parish Emergency Management: 972-2331 / 974-8912 / 909-4469

To all our friends in Jamaica, stay safe and we will contact you Saturday. 
To all our family and friends elsewhere, keep praying!

_________________________________________________________________
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• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:55:47 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA)
DATE: September 10, 2004
TIME: 6:00 pm 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Barbados, Sep 10, 2004 (CDERA) – Prime Minister P.J. Patterson  has declared a 
state of emergency ahead  of the impact of dangerous category four Hurricane 
Ivan.

Although at 5.00pm the centre was located 80 miles south east of Jamaica Ivan 
outer rain bands had started to affect the country. Coastal areas in St. Thomas 
experienced tidal surges. Two houses have been washed away in the Logan Avenue, 
Duhaney Pen area of Morant Bay, St. Thomas.   A section of main road has been 
washed away in the vicinity of Duhaney Pen and Roselle. In Trelawny , sections 
of the Falmouth & Salt Marsh main roads are blocked. There were also reports of 
flooding in the Bogue Industrial Estate, Montego Bay in the vicinity of the 
sewage facility in the area.

Some sections of the island are without power.

More than 500,000 people were evacuated and are now being housed in 21 shelters 
across six parishes.

Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA) has activated its Regional 
Response Mechanism which will provide support to the Emergency Operations 
Centre (EOC) in Jamaica should the need arise. CDERA has also put its Caribbean 
Disaster Response Unit (CDRU) on standby to assist the Government of Jamaica in 
relief management and reconstruction if requested.

Updated reports on the progress of hurricane Ivan as well as updated reports on 
the impact on Jamaica may be read at www.cdera.org.

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

• From: <pcwick AT gmx.net>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 17:36:57 -0500

Gert, I do not live in the islands.  I am in the Ozark region of the USA.  I
took the following notes while listening to the Power106 5PM internet news
broadcast.

***

Power106 continues to broadcast over the net.  Friday evening 5PM newscast
notes: Many citizens have refused to seek shelter and otherwise follow
directives of public officials.  The Prime Minister has declared a "State of
Public Emergency" to last one month in which citizens's "freedom of
assembly", "freedom from search", "freedom of movement", and "other
freedoms" will be suspended.  Much discension and division among the
citizenry.  Numerous roads on the island are blocked by fallen trees,
flooding and high seas.  Hanover Bridge blocked by bamboo trees that have
"washed into the mouth of the bridge." Power has been shut off on the island
by JPS.  One man being treated for gunshot wounds that occurred in a
shelter.  Water supply in some areas already being disrupted.  KPH hospital
has moved patients to more secure area as roof is leaking.  Hospital working
with skeleton staff and attempts to reduce patient population by half were
not very successful.  Cell phones systems expected to fail.  Port Royal
residents are refusing to leave because they have faith that God will
protect them.  Port Royal is especially vulnerable to storm surge.  In
Dominican Republic four children swept to sea and killed by high waves from
Ivan who was over 200 miles away.  Citizens warned repeatedly that the worst
conditions are yet to come.  Jamacian meteorologist estimates current winds
in Jamaica at 140km (87 mph).

The link for Power 106 is: www.go-jamaica.com/power/ - Gert

• From: John.Vaux AT pontins.com
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 22:52:36 +0100

My name is Jonathan and I am the night manager here at Pontins Prestatyn in the
UK.  We have a lot of Jamaicans working here if anyone wants to past them a
message as they are desperate for news please give me their name and a message
and I will pass it on.  If they work for another Pontins site let me know and I
will forward it on.  Stay safe and our thoughts are with you.

JV

• From: "Richard May" <rmay AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 15:03:12 -0500 (Eastern Standard Time)

• From: "Clarence Chin-Fatt" <cfchinfatt AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 13:21:09 -0400

• From: "Ann Lyons - Culloden Cafe" <lyons AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 13:24:35 -0500

• From: Christian Smith <ctoddsmith AT yahoo.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 10:50:34 -0700 (PDT)

Still, it seems most Jamaicans told to evacuate aren't
heeding the order.

Officials told about 500,000 of the nation's 2.7
million people in low-lying areas to leave their
homes. On Friday morning, 300 people were in shelters.

It is not known if some people moved in with relatives
or friends in mountainous regions.

"We are concerned," said Barbara Carby, of Jamaica's
Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency
Management. "We called for the evacuation in the first
place because we feared for their safety. But
historically, people have been very reluctant to
evacuate. Most people seem to prefer to ride things
out where they live."

With just a few hours to go before the storm hits
land, panic-buying created long lines for supplies in
the Jamaican capital of Kingston.




                
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• From: " George Scarlett" <george.scarlett AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 12:32:58 -0500

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 12:51:34 -0400

• From: "Sue Warnke" <fido1223 AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 12:17:36 -0500

We just took a drive through Ocho Rios and everything is very quiet. There 
are few people on the street and alll of the businesses are closed and 
boarded up. The sea is getting pretty rough, but I have seen it a lot worse. 
The wind closer to the sea seems to be gusting a lot stronger than up in the 
hills and there are small branches and leaves down, but nothing large. It is 
currently getting windy and a little rain is falling. There seems to be an 
almost electric air of anticipation as Ivan slows down….my daughter said 
that the waiting is the worse part.  To all of our friends and family we ask 
you to pray for the safety of the Jamaican people. More later as things 
progress.

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• From: <henrique AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 11:32:43 -0400

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 12:02:30 -0400

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 10:44:09 -0400

• From: "Ann Lyons - Culloden Cafe" <lyons AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 07:00:57 -0500

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Fri, 10 Sep 2004 07:03:20 -0400

• From: "telavi" <telavi AT mail.gotelja.com>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 22:35:55 -0700

well, it seems the whip tail of ivan has begun affecting the island of jamaica.

the northern eastern parish of portland is currently under heavy showers 
coupled with high winds, floods and landslides.....already many have been 
evacuated from  flooded homes to shelters setup within the parish.

With the gridlock traffic now melted the city of kingston echoes an unuusual 
stillness...almost pensive tension as the prepared and unprepared alike brace 
nervously for ivan.

Regards,
lloyd

• From: Edson Brown <colorapx AT yahoo.com>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 20:21:02 -0700 (PDT)

• From: "Dervon Fowler" <dervon AT anngel.com.jm>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 19:16:17 -0700

• From: "Ann Lyons - Culloden Cafe" <lyons AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 20:03:28 -0500

• From: "Rebecca Stauter" <rstauter AT olympvs.com>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 18:25:06 -0400

• From: "Ann Lyons - Culloden Cafe" <lyons AT cwjamaica.com>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 13:23:40 -0500

• From: "Sue Warnke" <fido1223 AT hotmail.com>
• Date: Wed, 08 Sep 2004 21:33:30 -0500

As was his namesake, Ivan looks to be a strong and vicious conqueror.  In 
Ocho Rios this afternoon there was the usual traffic and the stores were not 
busy at all, however, most who dismissed Charley, including the Government  
are taking this storm VERY seriously! The Prime Minister in his address this 
evening stressed that we prepare not panic. Hopefully during the night Ivan 
will take another course and decide that he can't bother with Jamaica.  We 
have experienced some rain this morning and some thunder and lightning 
during the early evening hours…..but all is quiet now.

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• From: CDERA Information Unit <pubinfo AT cdera.org>
• Date: Thu, 9 Sep 2004 03:14:00 GMT

ISSUED BY: Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency
DATE: September 8, 2004
TIME: 11:00 pm 

This is not an official weather advisory for any state
******************************************************


1. Hurricane Ivan which impacted the Windward Islands is now threatening 
Jamaica.

2. The Emergency Operations Centre in Kingston is being activated Thursday.

3. The Government of Jamaica has issued a hurricane watch which indicated that 
hurricane force conditions are likely within 36 hours.

4. At 11 pm Ivan, a dangerous category 4 hurricane was located 595 miles 
east-southeast of Jamaica at latitude 13.6 north and longitude 69.1 west. Ivan 
is travelling west-northwest near 17 mph. Forecasters expect Ivan to slow his 
forward movement during the next 24 hours on his approach to Jamaica.

5. Maximum sustained winds are 145 mph and further strengthening is expected. 
Hurricane force winds extend outward to 60 miles from the center and tropical 
storm force winds to up 160 miles.

6. Detais, including forecast charts and maps are available at 
http://www.cdera.org/activecyclones/active4.html

• From: Andrew Green <ochiboy AT yahoo.com>
• Date: Wed, 8 Sep 2004 18:45:10 -0700 (PDT)

Ivan is getting mixed reviews here
Some people scared stiff and others unbelieving
I did not see any signs of panic shopping today
People waiting until tomorrow to see if this is really
going to happen
The Prime Minister just addressed the nation
announcing that the mobilisation of emergency services
has started
Schools will close from tomorrow
Some churches will be made available to serve as
shelters
All public functions from Thursday cancelled
A media center set up at the Prime Minister's office
to handle information on the hurricane
Jamaica has been hving intermittent showers for a few
days so there are heightened flooding concerns.
The joke is that a few days ago I was really worried
about how my friends in Barbados would cope. 
Instead Grenada got devastated and Jamaica is now the
prime target.
Andrew Green
Kingston



                
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