The situation in Jamaica has worsened after Category 5 Hurricane Melissa struck. In the town of Black River, residents are searching for food and supplies in the mud and debris. Many are scavenging for water bottles and essential items from destroyed shops and supermarkets. According to a BBC report, the town has been experiencing chaos and hunger and thirst for the past three days since the storm. Mud on the streets, broken buildings, overturned boats, and scattered vehicles paint a picture of devastation. Power and water supplies are out, and people have lost contact with their families. Images of Hurricane Melissa’s impact and devastation… People have yet to receive help.
According to a BBC report, residents say no relief trucks have arrived in the area. They are surviving on debris lying on the road or whatever they can find in stores. “We’re eating whatever we can find on the street,” said Demar Walker, a local youth. “We got water from the supermarket, but we shared it with others.” A nearby pharmacy and shops were also looted. People were seen picking up medicines and food soaked in mud. Many shopkeepers stood guard outside their looted shops. Relief supplies have begun arriving at the capital, Kingston Airport, but damage to the smaller airport and roads is delaying aid. Trucks from the military and relief agencies are struggling to navigate broken sections of road. 19 dead, 30 killed in Haiti too The Jamaican government has confirmed that 19 people have died in the storm. Thirty deaths have also been reported in Haiti. Local authorities say 90% of the town’s homes have been destroyed. The hospital, police station, and fire station are also severely damaged. The town’s mayor said Black River is completely devastated. People are desperately trying to pick up belongings, but violence is also increasing. A medical worker reported that the fire station was flooded with four to five feet of water. Many people, including children and the elderly, were brought in injured. In several locations, people were found unharmed. Army helicopters arrived in Black River on Friday afternoon, clearing the streets of the area.
