May 2009 is the first year of what will now be observed as Hurricane Preparedness Month. This is part of plans by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to heighten national awareness of the need for adequate preparations by individuals before the start of the 2009 hurricane season.
Hurricane Ivan hit Jamaica in September 2004
The 6 month long North Atlantic hurricane season, runs from June 1- November 30. ODPEM has many activities planned islandwide to mark hurricane preparedness month. Jamaicans are urged to start making plans for and budget towards hurricane supplies. Institutions vulnerable to natural disasters are also urged to make planning for a hurricane a issue in what is expected to be another active season.
