Friday, September 12, marks the 15th anniversary of Hurricane Gilbert, which affected the island on September 12, 1988. Hurricane Gilbert is one of the most memorable hurricanes, which have affected Jamaica, because of the millions of dollars in damage it caused to the island’s physical infrastructure.
The twelfth tropical depression of the season became Tropical Storm “Gilbert” on September 10 and was upgraded to Hurricane “Gilbert” on the morning of September 11. Hurricane Gilbert traversed the entire length of Jamaica and resulted in the deaths of forty-five persons.
Damage to crops and livestock was extensive. Estimated loss to domestic crops was $769 Million. The banana industry comprising 12,000 acres for the local market and 7,100 for the export market was totally destroyed by the effects of the hurricane. Thirty thousand acres of sugar cane was lost reducing the 1988/89 crop by approximately 17%.
Damage was reported in all resort areas on the North Coast. Over 80% of the hotels suffered damages. In Montego Bay, 20 hotels and restaurant buildings were affected. Overall damage to the tourism sector was estimated at $431 Million.
Throughout the day, (September 12) there will be a major exhibition at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Library and members of the general public are invited to view this exhibit.
As we commemorate the anniversary of Hurricane Gilbert, the public is also being reminded that we are now in what is statistically the busiest section of the hurricane season. AT THIS TIME MOST PREPAREDNESS MEASURES SHOULD BE COMPLETE. The following checklist serves as a reminder.
For all residents
§ Review your family disaster plans and ensure that all members of the family are aware of it.
§ Check roofs and have them repaired if necessary.
§ Have on hand hurricane shutters and / or other material for securing windows and doors.
§ Trim trees which overhang or are close to buildings
§ Check your emergency supplies and have them restocked where necessary
§ Remove all loose objects from your yard and have them properly secured.
§ Make arrangements for shelter with relatives and friends
§ Know where your nearest emergency shelter is located
§ Know the safest evacuation route from your home.
For businesses
§ Revise disaster plans and carry out drills
§ Have on hand plastic bags to secure vital records, documents and electronic equipment
§ Have on hand hurricane shutters and / or other material for securing windows and doors
§ Check to ensure that insurance coverage is up to date
§ Review mutual aid agreements.
