Jamaica is under a 12 hour disaster curfew, as the island braces for impacts of Hurricane Beryl.

The measure took effect at 6 A.M., and will remain in place until 6 this evening.

Prime Minster Andrew Holness announced the curfew last evening during a national address.

The curfew comes amidst the declaration of Jamaica as a disaster area for 7 days.

Mr. Holness said the curfew is intended to, among other things, prevent criminal activity.

The Prime Minister added that the security forces will maintain law and order, as well as provide emergency response.