Maritime Authority of Jamaica urges extreme caution amid unstable offshore weather

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is advising all boaters, fisherfolk, and mariners to exercise extreme caution amid the unstable weather conditions currently affecting offshore areas of the island.

The advisory follows forecasts of deteriorating sea conditions, which could pose risks to small craft and other vessels operating in Jamaican waters.

In a JIS News interview, MAJ Director of Safety, Environment, and Certification, Captain Stephen Spence, urged maritime stakeholders to prioritise safety and take the necessary precautions when venturing out to sea during this period of unstable weather.

“We strongly encourage operators to carefully assess conditions before leaving shore,” he emphasised.

Fisherfolk are strongly advised to remain onshore until sea conditions improve.

“We are imploring fisherfolk to properly secure their vessels and stay on land until the weather system passes and conditions return to normal,” Spence cautioned.

He added that taking these precautionary steps can help prevent accidents and safeguard lives and livelihoods.

The MAJ is also reminding mariners to remain vigilant by closely monitoring official weather updates and warnings from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica and following all safety instructions issued by maritime authorities.

“We ask all mariners to cooperate fully and take every precaution necessary to ensure their safety and the safety of their vessels,” Spence said.

The director noted that the Authority continues to monitor the situation and will provide further updates, as necessary.

- JIS News

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