Jamaica has officially entered emergency mode. The country has now been declared a threatened area under the Disaster Risk Management Act. This means that the government has been granted authority to expand its powers to protect residents, secure critical infrastructure, and move swiftly in the event of worsening conditions.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness made the national declaration on Friday on the advice of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), per reports. In his statement, Holness also touched on the public concern of vendors increasing their prices as citizens stock up on essentials.
The prime minister announced the immediate freeze on prices. Under a new trade order put in place by the Minister of Industry, retailers are now legally barred from hiking prices on necessities such as food, water, medication, sanitation products, batteries, lumber, tarpaulins, flashlights, and other emergency supplies.
Retailers who are found guilty in a Parish Court of inflating prices during this period can be fined up to one million dollars. This decision comes at a critical moment, as residents begin stocking up and preparing their homes. According to Prime Minister Holness, the measure is critical in protecting citizens from unfair exploitation at this time.
“This declaration enables the Government to act swiftly and decisively,” he said, adding that public agencies have already been instructed to activate their preparedness plans, set up shelters, and stage emergency response materials in strategic locations.
The prime minister also issued a stern warning to businesses attempting to profit off public anxiety, saying, “There will be zero tolerance for price gouging.” As Tropical Storm Melissa edges closer, Jamaicans are being advised to take the declaration seriously. Citizens are urged to secure their homes, check on vulnerable family members, and stay tuned for continuous updates from ODPEM and the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. Government agencies are on standby, emergency shelters are being readied, and citizens are being urged to finalise their personal contingency plans.