KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) says it is proactively preparing to respond to the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa.

In a release Thursday, the ministry said that with the safety and well-being of citizens as its top priority, steps have been taken to ensure a coordinated and efficient response across all 14 parishes.

“We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind during times of disaster,” said Labour Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. “Our teams are ready, equipped, and mobilised to respond as best as possible wherever the need arises.”

According to the ministry, all parish offices have been activated and are equipped to respond to emergency situations. The Humanitarian Assistance Committee (HAC) has also met to finalise coordination among key partners, while training sessions on the Jamaica Household Disaster Impact Needs Assessment (JHDINA) Lite damage assessment tool will continue as planned.

Care packages and supplies have already been distributed to the parishes of St Thomas, Portland, and St Mary, and the Ministry’s communication systems have been strengthened to ensure quick contact with field officers. Each parish manager, administrator, and social worker has been assigned a mobile phone within a Closed User Group (CUG) network to maintain communication during the storm.

“We reassure the public that all mechanisms are in place to respond effectively and provide timely assistance to affected individuals and families,” Charles Jr added.

The ministry is also collaborating with telecommunications partner Starlink to enhance connectivity and ensure continuity during and after the passage of the storm.

Citizens are being urged to remain vigilant, stay informed, and follow the instructions of local authorities as the island prepares for possible severe weather conditions associated with Tropical Storm Melissa.