Kentucky State University
Impact of Climate Change in Portland, Jamaica
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Computer Science
Minor
None
Institution 23-24
Kentucky State University
KY House District #
57
KY Senate District #
20
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Buddhi Gyawali, Ph.D.
Department
Department of Agriculture
Abstract
Landslides and flooding are recognized as some of the most common geohazards affecting Portland, Jamaica. Due to climate change impacts and increasing hurricanes and storm events, Portland has the potential to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of geological hazards. This research conducts a literature review on some of the current research available on Jamaica’s geography, how climate change affects geological activity, and the changes occurring in the Atlantic as a result of climate change. A study undertaken by the Jamaican government resulted in a map of the landslide susceptibility of Portland in 2007 and an improved map in 2010. It was found that areas of high susceptibility occur in the southwest of Portland, where the Blue Mountain Range runs through the parish, and areas near the John Crow Mountains. Furthermore, this research explores the surge in the Atlantic hurricane season, which could lead to more rainfall, creating the ideal conditions to induce landslides and flooding. The investigation concluded that there is a connection between rising sea surface temperature (SST) and the severity and frequency of geohazards, which could gravely impact the people, agriculture, and food security. This research is crucial for understanding the risks associated with climate change and geohazards in Portland, Jamaica, and their potential impact on the region's agriculture.
Impact of Climate Change in Portland, Jamaica
Landslides and flooding are recognized as some of the most common geohazards affecting Portland, Jamaica. Due to climate change impacts and increasing hurricanes and storm events, Portland has the potential to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of geological hazards. This research conducts a literature review on some of the current research available on Jamaica’s geography, how climate change affects geological activity, and the changes occurring in the Atlantic as a result of climate change. A study undertaken by the Jamaican government resulted in a map of the landslide susceptibility of Portland in 2007 and an improved map in 2010. It was found that areas of high susceptibility occur in the southwest of Portland, where the Blue Mountain Range runs through the parish, and areas near the John Crow Mountains. Furthermore, this research explores the surge in the Atlantic hurricane season, which could lead to more rainfall, creating the ideal conditions to induce landslides and flooding. The investigation concluded that there is a connection between rising sea surface temperature (SST) and the severity and frequency of geohazards, which could gravely impact the people, agriculture, and food security. This research is crucial for understanding the risks associated with climate change and geohazards in Portland, Jamaica, and their potential impact on the region's agriculture.