The death toll from Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has risen to 45 confirmed deaths, with 15 individuals still missing, as per authorities’ announcement on Tuesday. The number of casualties is anticipated to increase further, as rescue operations are ongoing in two towns that have been isolated since the powerful Category 5 storm struck western Jamaica on October 28.
Efforts to provide aid to the inaccessible communities include helicopter deliveries of essential supplies, such as food, by Alvin Gayle, the director general of Jamaica’s emergency management office. The storm has resulted in the displacement of 30,000 households, with 1,100 people currently residing in 88 operational emergency shelters.
Clearing debris from nearly 36 blocked roadways remains a priority for the rescue crews. Reports indicate that mobile service has been restored to 50% of customers, while more than 70% now have access to clean water. Power has been reinstated to over 60% of customers, with a significant milestone achieved in the restoration efforts, according to Hugh Grant, the president and CEO of Jamaica’s power company.
The restoration of power at Montego Bay’s international airport was confirmed by Grant on Tuesday. Hurricane Melissa, known as one of the most potent Atlantic hurricanes on record, caused widespread devastation in Jamaica and Cuba, leading to property and crop damage. The storm also triggered severe flooding in southwestern Haiti, resulting in at least 43 fatalities.
Various forms of assistance have been provided to the affected nations, with the U.S. government pledging additional funds totaling $10 million for Jamaica and $2.5 million for Haiti, amounting to nearly $37 million allocated for the affected regions, including Cuba and the Bahamas.