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UN says Hurricane Melissa affected more than 1.5 million in Jamaica; WFP to brief on response
Summary
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that Hurricane Melissa has affected more than 1,500,000 people in Jamaica and caused extensive infrastructure damage, including blocked roads and disrupted power and communications, leaving parts of western parishes difficult to access.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that Hurricane Melissa has affected more than 1,500,000 people in Jamaica and caused extensive infrastructure damage, including blocked roads and disrupted power and communications, leaving parts of western parishes difficult to access.
OCHA said hospitals and clinics were damaged or destroyed, including the hospital in the town of Black River, prompting deployment of an emergency medical team from the Pan American Health Organization and additional mental health and psychosocial support personnel for children and health workers. The World Food Programme estimates that up to 360,000 people may require food assistance, while UNICEF and partners are restoring safe water and sanitation services in shelters and affected communities.
The UN and its humanitarian partners reported that more than 130 roads have been blocked and that fuel shortages have complicated movement and power restoration. Joint assessments by national authorities, the UN, and humanitarian partners are under way across affected departments to define needs and reach people in shelters and communities.
Funding shortfalls were highlighted: the briefing cited a humanitarian needs and response plan valued at $908,000,000 that is roughly 20% funded, with $195,000,000 received so far. The spokesperson said limited funding, access constraints, and logistical challenges are hampering scale-up, and urged donors to step up support so life-saving assistance can reach those most in need.
Brian Bogart, WFP country director for the multi-country Caribbean office, and Etienne Laband, WFP's country director in Cuba, were introduced to brief reporters on WFP operations in the Caribbean and Cuba.
The spokesperson said OCHA is coordinating incoming aid and information sharing through an OCHA-led UN disaster assessment and coordination team. The briefing closed with a note that UN and partner teams remain committed to stay and deliver life-saving assistance despite operational difficulties.
