KINGSTON, Jamaica. CMC – The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) says work has begun to develop a national lightning program.
This was disclosed by Acting Deputy Director General Michelle Edwards during a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’ at the agency’s head office here on Wednesday.
“The program aims to promote the integration of lightning safety preparedness and awareness capacity into the National Disaster Risk Management Framework, our plans, and our policies,” she explained.
Edwards said the program would be designed using three pillars –Hazard Inclusivity, Enhancing Lightning Protection Systems and Lightning, and Safety Improving National Lightning Detection Capacity.
The national lightning program is being developed with the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and other key stakeholders.
She advised that ODPEM is also taking steps to increase awareness about lightning.
She emphasized that special attention must be paid to this “emerging hazard,” especially from a disaster management perspective.
As part of its efforts to boost awareness, the agency recently hosted a ‘Lightning Talks’ forum, which several stakeholders attended.
The event provided information about lightning hazards and sensitized participants about safety procedures and best practices, among other vital areas.
Lightning is among the deadly hazards that affect people, infrastructure, livestock, crops, and technology.
“The ODPEM has long been at the forefront of disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts, and it is our mission not only to respond swiftly and effectively but to prevent them whenever possible,” Edwards said.
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