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Hurricane Melissa Death Toll Climbs Amid Jamaica’s Devastation
The catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa continues to worsen in Jamaica, with confirmed fatalities rising to 27 as emergency teams battle floods, landslides, and collapsed infrastructure to reach survivors. The Category 4 storm, which struck Jamaica’s southern coast earlier this week, has displaced thousands and overwhelmed relief operations.
Rising Casualties and Extreme Damage
Hurricane Melissa unleashed 130 mph winds and torrential rains, submerging neighborhoods across St. Elizabeth, Manchester, and Clarendon. The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) reports 27 dead, including children trapped in collapsing homes. Prime Minister Andrew Holness called it “one of the worst disasters in decades” and appealed for global aid.
Aid Efforts Stall Due to Blocked Roads and Blackouts
A state of emergency has been declared, but flooded highways and downed communication lines are delaying critical supplies. Helicopters from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) are airdropping food and water, but fuel shortages and storms hamper flights. Organizations like the Red Cross and UNICEF warn of water shortages and disease outbreaks in makeshift shelters.
“People are desperate—many have lost homes, family, and hope.”
— Marcia Reid, Salvation Army Volunteer
Global Aid Mobilizes as Jamaica Seeks Help
The US, UK, and Canada have pledged emergency funds, while CDEMA coordinates regional relief. Locally, hashtags like #JamaicaHurricaneRelief are rallying support for crowdfunding and supply drives.
Jamaica’s Long Recovery Ahead
Early damage estimates exceed $500 million, with banana and coffee farms destroyed and tourist resorts in Negril and Montego Bay severely impacted. The focus remains on search-and-rescue, but rebuilding will take years.
How to Help: Donate to verified relief funds and follow @NextMinuteNews for updates.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews Team
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