Jamaica Observer | Saturday, October 25, 2025 
PM declares Jamaica a threatened area

PRIME Minister Dr Andrew Holness has declared Jamaica a “threatened area” as potentially dangerous Tropical Storm Melissa continues its slow waltz towards the island. The late Friday afternoon Order was issued pursuant to Section 26(2) of the Disaster Risk Management Act (DRMA), and came hours after Holness told a Jamaica House press briefing that he would be taking all measures, up to and including declaring the country a disaster area, in order to keep Jamaicans safe. The declaration comes as the country remains firmly under a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch, with Melissa stalling off Jamaica’s south-eastern coast. “Under this Order, the whole of Jamaica is declared to be a threatened area due to the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, which poses a significant threat to the island. This declaration empowers the Government to implement precautionary and protective measures to safeguard lives, property, and critical infrastructure,” said a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister. It noted that the Order “reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining public order and protecting citizens during this period of heightened alert”. “By declaring Jamaica a threatened area we are activating the legal tools to move resources quickly, safeguard critical services, and protect the most vulnerable. This declaration enables the Government to act swiftly and decisively. I have directed all agencies to execute their preparedness plans, including shelter readiness and the pre-positioning of supplies and equipment,” Holness said...Learn more