Jamaica lies in a tectonic setting where the North American plate is sinking beneath the Caribbean plate giving rise to earthquakes and volcanic activity. In this setting earthquakes (underwater or those occurring close to the shore) that rupture the crust may generate tsunamis. Tsunamis have been observed in the Caribbean and its adjacent seas since the 16th century. Jamaica has a history of tsunamis that have affected the coastline since 1688 causing loss of life and destruction of property. Jamaica's geologic setting makes the coastline particularly vulnerable to both tsunami and storm surge hazards. The entire coastline of Jamaica is exposed to tsunami hazards. Because most of the urban population in Jamaica resides in coastal areas, any future tsunami is likely to have a disastrous impact. Tsunami preparedness is crucial in order to protect the development and population along the coastline.
Although a tsunami cannot be prevented, the effect of a tsunami can be reduced through community preparedness, timely warnings, and effective response. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is leading the world in providing tsunami observations and research. Through innovative programs, NOAA is helping coastal communities prepare for possible tsunamis to save lives and protect property. NOAA discusses ways to be prepared for tsunamis. First, is to develop a family disaster plan. It is important about the risk of tsunami in the community. NOAA also suggests to find out if your most visited areas are in hazard areas (ex. coastline). Other steps NOAA discusses include plan and practice an evacuation route, obtain a NOAA weather radio, and prepare essentials. Another way to reach a large amount of people would be to participate in NOAA’s TsunamiReady Program. The TsunamiReady Program, developed by NOAA’s National Weather Service, is designed to help cities, towns, counties, universities and other large sites in coastal areas reduce the potential for disastrous tsunami-related consequences. TsunamiReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen their local operations. It makes sure communities are better prepared to save lives through better planning, education and awareness. Communities have fewer fatalities and property damage if they plan before a tsunami arrives. No community is tsunami proof, but TsunamiReady can help minimize loss to your community.
If I ever lived in Jamaica, I would try to build my home somewhat inland. As beautiful as the coastline is, it contains too much of a hazard. Today Kingston is the largest English-speaking city in the Caribbean, with a population of approximately 566,2000. It houses the seat of government, functions commercially, is a cultural hub of the country, and offers a wide variety of entertainment for visitors and the home population. However, Kingston has experienced a lot of natural disasters including an earthquake and fire that destroyed the port. Even with urbanization, Kingston still faces the potential for hazards including earthquakes, hurricanes, and coastal pollution from industrial waste. I would also try to avoid building a home that is close to where the two plates the country lies on meet in order to reduce the chance of experiencing an earthquake.
