St Elizabeth Authorities Seek Alternative Shelters Ahead of Hurricane Season

Authorities in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, are actively identifying alternative emergency shelters as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches on June 1. During a recent municipal meeting, Chairman Richard Solomon revealed that over 50% of traditional school shelters and more than 60% of community centers are unfit for use due to damage from the previous Hurricane Melissa. To address this critical shortage, the parish is forming partnerships with local churches, which have received government funding for restoration, to serve as safe havens. The Social Development Commission is also involved in assessing these new options. Additionally, officials are relocating the Emergency Operation Centre from Black River, which remains devastated and unrecovered from the previous hurricane. The goal is to establish a functional command center elsewhere to ensure effective response capabilities during future emergencies. This strategic shift highlights the ongoing recovery challenges and the proactive measures being taken to safeguard residents against upcoming weather threats through diversified shelter infrastructure and improved emergency coordination.