Flooding in Fort Lauderdale causes flight cancellations to Jamaica

Several flights that were scheduled to arrive in Jamaica from Florida yesterday were cancelled due to severe flooding in sections of the state.

Fort Lauderdale experienced the rainiest day in its history on Wednesday—a 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event—sparking a flash flood emergency in Broward County.

The flooding prompted emergency rescues, forced drivers to abandon cars, shuttered schools, and shut down the airport.

There was also the threat of tornadoes in other areas of Florida. 

Senior Strategist in the Tourism Ministry, Delano Seivright, told Radio Jamaica News that flights to both the Norman Manley and Sangster International Airports were cancelled.

Mr Seivright is optimistic that additional arrangements will be made for visitors seeking to attend the highly anticipated Jamaica Carnival this weekend.

Meanwhile, the Opposition People's National Party has expressed concern about the impact of Wednesday's torrential flooding on residents of Broward County, Florida.

In a media release yesterday the PNP extended solidarity and support to those affected including people of Jamaican descent who have made Florida their home.

The PNP says it stands ready to offer its support and encourages people to assist affected residents of Broward County and other areas.