A devastating scene unfolds in the town of Middle Quarters, close to where Hurricane Melissa made landfall. Survivors like Vivienne Bennett share harrowing experiences of loss and desperation. Vivienne, injured while attempting to escape her home, revealed her severe injuries to reporters, saying, “I lost my finger in the hurricane.” She also highlighted the lack of medication and government assistance, indicating that many are without basic needs.
Her daughter Leila added, “We have no nappies, we have no food, we have no water.” The situation underscores the dire conditions in the region as communities grapple with widespread devastation.
Impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica
According to police reports from the worst-affected area, the death toll in Jamaica has reached six due to Hurricane Melissa. Superintendent Coleridge Minto of St Elizabeth Parish expressed concern that the count could increase, as some areas remain isolated. He stated, “We hope there is no more. We have not communicated with all stations yet.”
Aid Efforts and Challenges
The UK has pledged £7.5 million to support the Caribbean’s recovery efforts. Despite aid flights arriving at international airports, many regions, especially those hardest hit, have yet to receive the necessary supplies.
Traveling from Kingston to Black River, termed the epicenter of devastation, now takes six hours due to blocked roads and severe flooding. Upon arrival, residents appeared in shock, still coming to terms with the destruction of their homes and lives.
- Black River was historically a wealthy area, known for being the first town in Jamaica with electricity.
- The storm destroyed vital infrastructure, including homes, a 300-year-old church, and local businesses.
- Communications remain down, leaving many unable to connect with loved ones for days.
Emotional Reunion Amid Despair
In a poignant moment, Inkiru Bernard, who resides in New York, reached out for help locating her 67-year-old mother, Inez McRae, in Black River. After a tense wait, Inez was found sitting on her porch amid the destruction of her home.
“But I’m alive,” she stated, showcasing her resilience despite the circumstances. When they connected over a video call, Inkiru’s overwhelming relief was evident as she exclaimed, “Oh mummy, I’ve been so worried.”
Maintaining Order Amid Chaos
As desperation grows, authorities in Black River have deployed tanks and soldiers to maintain order following reports of looting. Superintendent Minto urges patience among citizens, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to restore stability in the area.
Although aid is beginning to trickle into Black River, many neighboring villages remain largely cut off. Each day, the urgency of the situation escalates as the community strives to rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact.
