KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Water Resources Authority (WRA) says groundwater levels in Content, Manchester, which caused flooding in the community, are now slowly receding.

The rising water levels have been attributed to the significant rainfall experienced before and during the passage of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

Deputy managing director of the WRA, Geoffrey Marshall, who made the disclosure, noted that on‑site observations indicate gradual improvement in the area.

“The water appears to be slowly declining – not quickly, but a gradual decline seems to be happening right now,” he told JIS News.

Marshall noted, however, that groundwater movement in Content is contributing to rising levels in downstream communities, an outcome he said the authority had anticipated.

“We’re seeing rising water [levels] in Porus and Harmons, Manchester, which was expected, because as the groundwater flows underground from Content going down we expected the water to rise in [the neighbouring] regions,” he stated.

Marshall noted similar occurrences in Comfort Hall and Evergreen, adding, “Those are the areas in Manchester we have identified. At present, I am not aware of any others.”

Meanwhile, the WRA is urging residents in the affected communities to exercise caution as groundwater levels continue to shift and advises individuals to take immediate action should their property become threatened.

Based on current data and comparisons with previous events, Marshall indicated that the recession of water in Content “may take approximately four weeks”.

“In 2002, the waters receded within two weeks, but this current event appears to involve a greater volume of water,” Marshall stated.

He added that preliminary indications, supported by anecdotal evidence, suggest water levels this time have exceeded those recorded in 2002.

While the situation in Content continues to be closely monitored, Marshall noted that assessments are also ongoing across other communities.

Cautioning residents against entering floodwaters to take photographs or videos, Marshall underscored the dangers posed by severe contamination.

“People should avoid contact with the water. It may be contaminated by… sewage pits, graves and other matter that would compromise its safety. It is not suitable for human contact or consumption,” he emphasised.

Marshall further urges residents not to consume water seeping from the ground in certain areas, explaining that such water is likely contaminated, and, if used, “people should boil it or take steps to purify it before drinking”.

He emphasises that any water intended for consumption must be properly treated.

—JIS