KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining is urging the public to avoid lighting open fires amid dry conditions, following another fire in Pedro Plains, St Elizabeth, which damaged approximately 12 acres of farmland, including seven acres of recently planted watermelon.

The incident is the second major fire reported in Pedro Plains and the third in St Elizabeth within the past two weeks, raising concern about the growing impact on farmers, agricultural infrastructure and food production.

The fire also damaged irrigation infrastructure, including main lines and drip lines, as well as fencing. Grass mulch used to retain soil moisture was also destroyed.

The ministry is therefore appealing to members of the public to exercise extreme caution and to refrain from lighting fires for land clearing, garbage disposal or any other purpose during the prevailing dry conditions. Such fires can spread quickly, placing nearby farms, communities and agricultural infrastructure at risk.

The ministry noted that the effects of these fires extend beyond the acreage directly burned. Damage to crops, irrigation systems, fencing and other farm infrastructure can interrupt production and impose significant additional costs on affected farmers.

The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is continuing its assessment of the affected area to document the losses sustained and determine the full impact on agricultural production.

The ministry is urging the public to act responsibly and avoid activities that could result in the outbreak or spread of fires. It said public cooperation is critical to protecting agricultural lands, rural livelihoods and Jamaica’s food production.