Jamaica Death Toll Mounts to 28 After Hurricane Melissa Devastation
Five days after Hurricane Melissa slammed into western Jamaica, the death toll has risen to 28, with many communities still cut off from aid and essential services.
The dramatic increase in fatalities – nearly a 50% jump overnight – was reported yesterday as officials gain access to previously isolated areas. Dr. Dayton Campbell, a local official, confirmed 10 deaths occurred in Westmoreland Parish, with St. Elizabeth Parish believed to have the highest number of unconfirmed fatalities. The Category 5 storm, packing sustained winds of 185 mph (297 km/h), was the strongest to hit the Caribbean island in recorded history, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Approximately 400,000 Jamaicans remain without power, and many more lack cell service, hindering communication and rescue efforts.
Residents in towns like Whitehouse are expressing growing frustration with the pace of assistance. “They no turn up,” said Gary Williams, a resident who lost his home in the storm, describing the unfulfilled promises of aid delivery. Others echoed his sentiment, with one woman stating, “Words can’t explain the situation that we’re in. It’s horrible.” The Jamaican government has deployed over 200 Starlink devices to restore internet access, addressing criticism regarding the initial response, as detailed in a statement by Transportation Minister Daryl Vaz on X. This disaster highlights Jamaica’s vulnerability to increasingly intense hurricanes linked to climate change.
Despite the devastation, a spirit of resilience is emerging. Robert Morris, a fisherman whose village was destroyed, stated, “We just have to try and see what we can do,” while farmer Oreth Jones, despite suffering significant losses and a leg injury, declared, “We have to give God thanks we’re alive.” Prime Minister Andrew Holness has urged a focus on clearing debris, restoring essential services, and providing food and medical supplies. Foreign aid, including a Disaster Assistance Response Team from the US State Department and pledges from the UK, is beginning to arrive.
Officials say the immediate focus remains on reaching isolated communities and assessing the full extent of the damage.
