THE rescue of 24 people trapped by flood waters in a section of St Thomas by the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Air Wing has been hailed as a signal of the strength of the country’s disaster coordination and response.

According to acting director general of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) Richard Thompson, last Friday’s rescue mission, which took place at the intersection of Amity Hall and Golden Grove, was risky due to wind and visibility issues.

“The JDF pilots flew in very treacherous conditions,” said Thompson as he commended the fire and police personnel who first responded to the residents who had been trapped in their vehicles since late Thursday.

Thompson is imploring people to follow the instructions of the authorities during severe weather conditions.

He said they should avoid flood waters during heavy rains and not attempt to drive on flooded roads.

Thompson noted that people who continue to take these risks not only endanger their lives but also the lives of the first responders who come to their rescue.

In the meantime, deputy director general of ODPEM Michelle Edwards said that the rescue mission was the result of “real coordination”, managed by ODPEM which is the national disaster management coordinator.

“This is the strength of the disaster management system, the interagency coordination for which we strive. It is fundamental in managing emergencies,” said Edwards as she implored people to avoid flooded areas.

ODPEM, which is an agency under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, is responsible for disaster management in Jamaica.

It is charged with responsibility for taking action to reduce the impact of disasters and emergencies on the Jamaican population and its economy.

ODPEM plays a coordinating role in the execution of emergency response and relief operations in major disaster events.

– JIS