Customers could wait days before power is restored

Persons who are without electricity following the effects of Tropical Storm Earl now affecting the island might have to wait days before regaining power, the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) said.

"It depends on the extent of the damage. It depends on how far-reaching the system is, it could take from hours to days," Winsome Callum, director of corporate communications at the JPS, said.

Callum noted that the company has to wait until it receives the 'national all clear' directive from the relevant authorities before the work to restore power starts.

"The first step is to do damage assessment, that is to check to see the extent of the damage to the network and generating systems, if any. Then repair work is done, and it is only after repair work is done where necessary, that we restore power," she explained.

Persons are urged to turn off and unplug all their electronic appliances and equipment during the tropical storm as the JPS will not be held accountable for any damages sustained during power surges or power outages.

"When there is a hurricane or storm, these are considered acts of God, which means that such damages will not be the responsibility of the company. It is the responsibility of the customer," she explained.

In the meantime, JPS is urging customers to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety over the next few days.

"We encourage everyone to stock up on emergency supplies, stay indoors, and stay away from fallen poles and power lines," Callum advised.