As Jamaica braces for the impact of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr., joined ABC News Live, saying those in especially vulnerable areas need to heed the warnings of officials.
“The Prime Minister has also declared evacuation orders, which means it’s not a suggestion; it is a directive to save your life, to remove yourself from communities that are extremely vulnerable, the low-lying, flood-prone areas, and to get you to a shelter,” Charles said.
The evacuation Order applies to Port Royal in Kingston; Portland Cottage and Rocky Point in Clarendon; Old Harbour Bay in St. Catherine; and New Haven, Riverton City and Taylor Land in St. Andrew, according to officials.
People fill bags with sand in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Melissa, in Port Royal, Jamaica, October 26, 2025.
Octavio Jones/Reuters
“Don’t wait, don’t gamble with your life if you are in one of those areas that are low lying, just get out, you know, secure what you can secure. … Get your medicine, get your documents, get your children and get to a space that is higher ground and safer,” Charles added.
“There is no possession or pride that is as important as a single life. So the message is, protect yourself, protect your family, and also look out for the elders. Look out for the persons with disabilities and those right now who need support. It’s unity and collaboration to protect this nation,” he said.
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