Preliminary report on flooding in Montego Bay and Lucea

Sections of the Parishes of St. James and Hanover experienced severe flooding on Tuesday April 19, 2022 following heavy rain that impacted the north-western belt from Trelawny to Hanover. Flash flooding was reported in the Westgate area of St. James and in sections of Lucea, especially around the area in close proximity to the Harvey (Riley) River.

Based on observations, there is need for remedial work to be done in the vicinity of the Westgate Bridge. While it is almost impossible prevent floods, the magnitudes and impacts can be reduced with robust mitigation measures. There is however, need for additional studies to be done to comprehensively define the solutions.