August 21, 2007

Preamble
On August 19, 2007 Hurricane Dean impacted the Island of Jamaica. The Hurricane was categorized as a powerful category 4 Hurricane that moved along the south coast from east to west before leaving Jamaica’s territorial waters. Hurricane Dean had maximum sustained winds of near 230 km/h (145 mph), with higher gusts. Hurricane force winds extended outward approximately 95 km (60 miles), while tropical storm force winds extended 335 km (205 miles) from the centre.

At least 230 vulnerable communities are located along the south coast where conditions associated with hurricane Dean are expected to cause intense negative impacts over the next 12 hours. These communities have been impacted by the last three major events to affect the island, Hurricanes Wilma, Emily and Ivan. These communities have a population just under 300,000 persons. Approximately 32% of this population are children under 14 years and 7% are senior citizens over 65 years old. Therefore, approximately 120,000 persons or 40% of this population can be considered to be in the vulnerable age group. These figures could be higher because coastal communities in the western section of the island have not been included.

The assumptions are that there will be responding to the needs of 15,000 families. These families are likely to be without proper roofing cover for an extended period as we move through the recovery and rehabilitation stage. As we seek to refine the numbers we are working on the assumption that there are 4 persons per family with atleast an average of two children. The items listed below will be required to support these persons and reduce the level of discomfort now being experienced.

Beyond that period we will need to also be engaged in restocking the National stores to support future preparedness and response efforts in light of the fact that we are still on the Hurricane Season and a very active part of it. Hence the real estimates of related resources will need to be in the region of 60,000 families. Below are the items necessary for current responses to the situation resulting from the impact of Hurricane Dean and also to ensure that there are adequate reserves in place should there be future threats. These items will be required in quantities necessary to support the needs of 60,000 families.

Please also see attached Specialized Shelter Kits which also be required to facilitate propositioning within shelters once activated. Minimum requirements are for 250 Shelters.

Relief Supplies
DESCRIPTION
Plastic Sheeting
Bath Towels
Blankets -Adults
Tarpaulins
Heavy Duty Roof Tarpaulin
Gas Stove 2- Burner (LPG)
Water Containers – Individuals and Family Sizes
Sleeping Mats
Bed Sheets
Children Blankets
Drinking Cups – Plastic Type
Dinner Plates – Plastic
Bath Soap
Hygiene Kits
First Aid Kits
Lanterns – Battery
Meals Ready to Eat (MRE)
Pillows
Sleeping Cots
Inflatable Mattress
Wash Rags
Generators
Flashlights

Hurricane Dean Needs List
DESCRIPTION
Children Toys (Assorted)
Children Reading Books
Agricultural Tools
Roofing Materials
Toilet Tissues
Baby Diapers
Baby Wipes
Adults Diapers
Sanitary Napkins
Bottled Water
Batteries – A, AAA, C, D
Cellular Phones – (for field workers)
Clothing – Children
Clothing – Adults
Portable Radios
Lap Top Computers (for Logistics Unit)