Farmers urged to develop storm plans

The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is urging farmers islandwide to make preparations to protect their properties, crops and livestock against the impact of potential storms.

Francine Webb-Lawrence, senior plant health and food safety officer at RADA, said there are many risks that come with the hurricane season.

"Winds and heavy rains associated with the hurricane can cause significant damage to crops. The winds can break the plants, uproot them or cause other kinds of physical damage. Heavy rains and flooding can also drown the plants, wash them away or cause damage through soil erosion. Depending on the growth stage of the crop, depending on the type of damage, this can actually lead to total loss," Webb-Lawrence said.

"For the livestock farmer, you're talking about flooding, high winds, and flying debris that can damage livestock structures," she said, noting that if livestock are not properly protected, this can create potential for disease outbreak.

Jamaica is now in the second month of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the United States of America has predicted near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year. NOAA is forecasting that there will be up to 17 named storms, nine of which could become hurricanes.

Webb-Lawrence, who was speaking with the JIS, said farmers should have a detailed emergency plan in place.

"Now is a good time to sit and think about what your disaster risk management plan is. It is good to have that laid out and documented so that when necessary, it is ready and you can fully implement that," she said.

Farmers are advised to incorporate hurricane preparedness in their planting and livestock-rearing calendar.

"There are some basic things in terms of the farm that should also be done. Know the area that you're in and put your farm buildings away from areas that are prone to flooding. It's also important for farmers to come together, look at what your risks are, and to see how, as a group, risks and impact can be reduced," Webb-Lawrence said.