Clarendon Under High Alert: Severe Weather Warnings and Comprehensive Preparedness Guide for 2026

Urgent Weather Warnings for Clarendon in 2026

The Meteorological Service of Jamaica has issued a significant weather warning for Clarendon and surrounding parishes, effective immediately. A trough interacting with a tropical wave is expected to produce heavy, persistent rainfall through the remainder of the week, with accumulations of up to 10 inches (250 mm) in some areas. Flash flooding, landslides, and disruption to road networks are likely, particularly in low-lying communities such as May Pen, Lionel Town, and the Rio Minho basin.

Residents are urged to treat these warnings with the utmost seriousness. The Met Service has upgraded the alert from a watch to a warning, indicating that severe weather is imminent or already occurring. This comes after the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) activated its regional response centres for Clarendon, Saint Elizabeth, and Manchester.

What This Means for Clarendon Communities

Clarendon’s geography makes it especially vulnerable. The parish is crisscrossed by major rivers—the Rio Minho, Milk River, and the Plantain Garden River—which frequently burst their banks during prolonged rainfall. Urban areas like May Pen, the capital, face street flooding that can quickly isolate neighbourhoods. Rural farming communities in the hills, such as those near Race Course and Crofts Hill, are at risk of landslides and road blockages.

For the latest updates and community-specific alerts, visit HowJamaica.com, your trusted source for local news and emergency information.

Official Emergency Contacts and Resources

To report emergencies or request assistance, use these verified numbers:

• NEMO Clarendon Regional Office: (876) 986-5535
• Jamaica Fire Brigade (Clarendon): 110 or (876) 986-2212
• Jamaica Constabulary Force - May Pen: (876) 986-2250
• Jamaica Red Cross (Clarendon Branch): (876) 986-2004
• Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) Hotline: 888-225-5550

Sandbag distribution points have been set up at:

• May Pen Fire Station
• Lionel Town Police Station
• Clarendon Parish Council (Denbigh)
• NEMO Depot, Race Course

Residents should bring identification and proof of residence. Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Step-by-Step Preparedness Guide for Clarendon Residents

#### 1. Secure Your Property

• Clear gutters, drains, and culverts of debris. Blocked drains are a leading cause of localised flooding.
• Sandbag doorways and low-lying vents. Place sandbags in a pyramid shape for maximum stability.
• Move valuable items to higher levels. Secure outdoor furniture, propane tanks, and garbage bins.

#### 2. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Your kit should include:

• Three-day supply of drinking water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food (canned goods, dry cereal, biscuits)
• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
• Flashlights and candles (with matches)
• First aid kit and prescription medications
• Important documents in a waterproof bag (passport, ID, insurance policies)
• Cash (ATMs may be down)

#### 3. Plan Your Evacuation

Know your evacuation route. Clarendon’s main evacuation centres are:

• May Pen High School
• Denbigh High School
• Lionel Town Community Centre
• Race Course Primary School

If you live in a flood-prone area (e.g., near the Rio Minho, or in communities like Suttons, Kellits, or Trout Hall), make arrangements to stay with family or friends on higher ground before conditions worsen.

#### 4. Stay Informed

• Monitor the Met Service’s official social media (@JamaicaMetService) and website.
• Listen to local radio stations: RJR 94 FM, IRIE FM, or Power 106 FM for live updates.
• Download the NEMO Jamaica app for real-time alerts.

Weather Impact on Agriculture and Business

Clarendon is a major agricultural hub, producing sugar cane, yams, and citrus. Farmers are advised to harvest ripe crops immediately and move livestock to higher ground. Heavy rain can damage roads leading to markets, disrupting supply chains. Businesses, especially those in May Pen’s commercial district, should prepare for potential power outages and water supply interruptions.

Safety Tips During the Storm

• Never drive or walk through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and two feet can sweep away a vehicle.
• Avoid using electrical appliances if standing water is present. Turn off breakers if flooding enters your home.
• Listen for official orders. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait until it’s too late.
• Keep your mobile phone charged. Use text messages instead of calls to conserve battery and network capacity.

Post-Weather Recovery: What to Do After the All-Clear

Once the Met Service downgrades the warning, follow these steps:

1. Check for structural damage before re-entering buildings. Look for cracks, shifting, or loose wires.

2. Boil drinking water until the National Water Commission declares it safe. Flooding often contaminates supply.

3. Document damage with photos and videos for insurance claims. Contact your insurer promptly.

4. Report blocked roads and fallen power lines to the authorities. Do not attempt to move live wires.

5. Check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours. Community resilience saves lives.

Final Word from HowJamaica.com

Clarendon has weathered many storms, but preparedness is the key to safety. This 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most active in recent memory. By staying informed, preparing your home, and knowing your emergency contacts, you can protect yourself and your family.

For continuous updates, community forums, and emergency resources, bookmark HowJamaica.com and share this guide with family and friends. Stay safe, Clarendon.