Rush on gas stations, ATMs and supermarkets in Ocho Rios

The typical post-hurricane rush on business places was evident in Ocho Rios, St Ann on Sunday, as residents flocked to gas stations, ATMs, and supermarkets.

Motorists swarmed gas stations, with several reporting fuel shortages.

The Rubis Ocho Rios service station had run out of gas, while the nearby Texaco station was out of E-10 90 fuel.

Other stations also reported running low, but the Fesco station along the Ocho Rios bypass was doing brisk business during the mid-morning hours.

Long lines were also seen at several automated teller machines (ATMs), including those at Sagicor and CIBC banks, as people sought to withdraw cash.

Several point-of-sale (POS) systems remain unable to process debit and credit card transactions.

Meanwhile, shoppers rushed to supermarkets, including Champion and Progressive, to stock up on food items amid fears that supplies could run low due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

In the meantime, regular water supply was restored to Ocho Rios last week following a disruption caused by the hurricane.

However, normal power supply has not yet been restored to the resort town.

A report issued by the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) in St Ann on Sunday afternoon said the company was continuing efforts to make areas safe in order to facilitate restoration as soon as possible.

- Carl Gilchrist

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