Hurricane Melissa, a category five storm, caused widespread damage and resulted in at least 28 deaths in Jamaica last week. Jamaican music artists Sean Paul and Shaggy are participating in aid efforts, as challenges related to infrastructure damage and communication continue to affect recovery operations.
Impact of Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa, a category five storm, generated winds of up to 185mph (295 km/h). The storm resulted in at least 28 fatalities. Areas to the west of the capital, Kingston, experienced the most significant damage. Sean Paul and his family were in Kingston during the storm. Reports from Montego Bay indicate roof losses. Observations in the Black River area describe flattened structures.
Aid and Recovery Efforts
Sean Paul has pledged $50,000 (£38,000) to match donations for Food For The Poor Jamaica. He noted the extensive effort required for recovery, stating that substantial work remains. Fellow Jamaican music artist Shaggy has coordinated aid efforts, delivering essential supplies to local communities via small convoys. Aid distribution faces challenges due to blocked roads and damaged infrastructure. Reports include instances of 15 infants under three months old sleeping in cardboard boxes. There are concerns that some affected residents are unaware of ongoing aid efforts due to communication limitations.
Infrastructure and Communication Challenges
Parts of St Mary parish, while less severely affected than other areas, still lack electricity. Communication is hindered by power outages, limiting residents' ability to charge phones and contact loved ones. Damaged roads contribute to difficulties in reaching affected areas and distributing aid.