St Thomas flooding affects 313 residents and 56 homes; relief operations continue – Labour Ministry

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security says emergency relief operations are continuing in St Thomas, where, based on preliminary reports, 56 houses have been flooded and 313 residents affected by recent heavy rainfall.

The ministry, in an update on Monday, indicated that the St Thomas parish team has been responding to the needs of affected households in Bath and surrounding communities, including Johnson Town, while undertaking further household damage assessments to determine the extent of losses and the additional assistance required.

It said the response is being coordinated with St Thomas Eastern Member of Parliament Rosemarie Shaw and the Parish Disaster Coordinator.

The ministry said it received a second preliminary situation report today, which indicated that relief items already issued in St Thomas include 30 food packages, seven tarpaulins, 18 water buckets, 18 cleaning kits, 15 blankets, and 35 female and unisex hygiene kits.

It said these supplies are intended to address immediate household needs while assessments continue.

Further, the ministry said the report also confirms that the temporary shelter at Bath Primary and Junior High School has been deactivated.

“The Ministry’s parish officers will continue household visits and damage assessments, with further relief supplies, including bedding, to be provided as needs are verified.”

Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr said the ministry’s priority remains the protection and support of families affected by severe weather, particularly older persons, persons with disabilities, children, and households experiencing significant loss.

“Our response is guided by the needs of affected families. Relief supplies are being delivered, assessments are continuing, and our parish team will remain engaged with communities requiring assistance. We are committed to ensuring that vulnerable residents are not left to manage the consequences of this flooding alone,” the minister said.

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