KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining is urging the public to avoid lighting open fires amid dry conditions, following another fire in Pedro Plains, St Elizabeth, which damaged approximately 12 acres of farmland, including seven acres of recently planted watermelon.

The incident is the second major fire reported in Pedro Plains and the third in St Elizabeth within the past two weeks, raising concern about the growing impact on farmers, agricultural infrastructure and food production.

The fire also damaged irrigation infrastructure, including main lines and drip lines, as well as fencing. Grass mulch used to retain soil moisture was also destroyed.