The death toll from Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has climbed to 45 confirmed deaths, with 15 individuals still missing, as reported by authorities on Tuesday. The number of casualties is anticipated to increase as officials are yet to access two isolated towns following the catastrophic Category 5 storm’s landfall in western Jamaica on October 28.
Alvin Gayle, the director general of Jamaica’s emergency management office, mentioned that helicopters have been delivering essential supplies to the inaccessible communities. The storm has displaced 30,000 households, with 1,100 individuals still residing in 88 open emergency shelters.
Approximately 30 roadways remain obstructed due to debris clearance operations. Mobile service has been restored to half of the customers, while over 70% now have access to water services.
Significant progress has been made in power restoration, with more than 60% of customers having their electricity reinstated. Hugh Grant, the president and CEO of Jamaica’s power company, highlighted the successful restoration of power at Montego Bay’s international airport.
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most potent Atlantic hurricanes on record, inflicted severe damage on Jamaica’s western region before crossing into eastern Cuba, causing destruction to properties and agriculture. The storm triggered severe flooding in southwestern Haiti, resulting in a reported death toll of at least 43 individuals.
In response to the crisis, aid efforts have intensified across the affected nations, with the U.S. government announcing additional financial assistance. Jamaica is set to receive an extra $10 million USD, while Haiti will benefit from an additional $2.5 million USD, bringing the total aid package to nearly $37 million for the impacted countries, including Cuba and the Bahamas.