KINGSTON, Jamaica —The Bog Walk Gorge flood traffic control gates have been closed due to rising water levels following heavy rainfall on Friday.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) in a statement on Friday, said the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have been dispatched to close the gates of the Gorge.

Motor vehicle users are being asked to use alternative routes: North South Highway, Sligoville Road and Barry Road.

“The National Works Agency (NWA) and the JFB will assess reported land slippage near the Sligoville Road entrance/exit at the Gorge. The landslide has blocked over 90 per cent of the corridor. The NWA team is evaluating the situation to determine the best course of action as it continues to rain,” ODPEM said.

ODPEM also sought to remind the public that tampering with the gates is illegal and individuals performing such acts are liable for prosecution; furthermore, they put themselves and the public at risk.

The ODPEM is cautioning the public of the following:

• Be ready to evacuate if you live in low-lying or flood-prone areas. Decide early on evacuation routes.
• Avoid flooded waterways, that is, fords, gullies, streams or rivers, either on foot or in a vehicle.
• Ensure that all important documents are secured in plastic bags or waterproof containers.
• Avoid areas with damaged roadways.
• Avoid areas prone to land slippage and flooding.

Members of the public are being reminded that they are still in the hurricane season and that they should take the necessary safety precautions as issued by the ODPEM, Meteorological Service of Jamaica and other authorities.