Kingston, Jamaica — Tropical Storm Rafael has brought heavy rains and high winds, leading to widespread power outages in multiple parishes across Jamaica. The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) reports that customers, especially in the southern and western regions of the island, are currently affected.
Hugh Grant, JPS President and CEO, confirmed the outages and emphasized the company’s commitment to restoring power while prioritizing public safety. “Our crews are already mobilized to begin assessment and repairs as soon as conditions permit,” Grant stated on Tuesday morning.
JPS Responds with 24-Hour Command Center
Ahead of the storm’s arrival, JPS activated a 24-hour Adverse Weather Incident Command Center. This unit allows for immediate coordination and dispatch of repair crews to areas impacted by the storm. However, Grant noted that certain locations may experience delays due to hazardous conditions.
Public Safety Warnings Amid Restoration Efforts
JPS is reminding residents to steer clear of fallen poles and power lines, cautioning the public to assume all downed lines are live. “We’re asking everyone to report fallen lines and avoid any contact with them,” Grant urged. He also warned against hiring unauthorized persons for reconnection, as JPS provides this service free of charge. “Paying unauthorized individuals to restore power can put lives and property at risk,” he added.
JPS: Updates and Patience During Restoration
While the power restoration timeline is contingent on storm conditions, JPS assures customers of timely updates. “We understand how challenging it is to be without electricity, and we appreciate the patience as we work to safely restore power,” Grant said.
As Jamaica endures Tropical Storm Rafael, JPS’s emergency response teams are actively preparing for safe and efficient restoration across affected areas.
