Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has declared a state of public emergency as Hurricane Dean continues to barrel across the country.

A statement from the Prime Minister's office was read on Sunday evening by Executive Director of the Jamaica Information Service, Huntley Medley.

"We are all aware that Hurricane Dean has severely affected Jamaica. Where the safety of the public is likely to be endangered and the various communities within Jamaica may be deprived of supplies and services that are essential to life,"

"We are also aware that during and after natural disasters there have been widespread attempts at looting and other threats to public safety," "As Prime Minister I have advised the Governor General to declare a state of public emergency has arisen," said the statement.