Hurricane Melissa Slams Jamaica, Canadians Fear for Loved Ones

UPDATE: Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Jamaica, unleashing catastrophic winds of up to 295 km/h and a life-threatening storm surge of 4 meters. Canadians are anxiously awaiting news from relatives in affected areas, particularly in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth, where the storm’s impact is most severe.

Residents in Jamaica are bracing for extensive damage as the Category 5 hurricane continues to batter the southern coast. Scarborough resident Rhondanee Thelwell expressed her deep concern for her family hunkered down at home, facing torrential rain and flooding. “The southern coast of Westmoreland is experiencing the full force of Melissa,” she reported, noting roofs being ripped off homes and flooding in low-lying areas.

As of Tuesday, October 24, 2023, Melissa made landfall near St. Elizabeth, with reports indicating significant destruction. The National Hurricane Center has warned residents to remain indoors due to rapidly intensifying winds on the storm’s backside. Officials confirmed that over 240,000 customers are currently without electricity, severely disrupting communication and emergency services.

In a press conference, Jamaican Minister of Transport Daryl Vaz stated that damage assessment will be slow due to the ongoing conditions. “There will be potentially disabling impacts at the Donald Sangster International Airport,” he said. However, relief flights may begin as early as Thursday at the Kingston-based Norman Manley International Airport.

The storm has already claimed at least seven lives across the Caribbean, with three fatalities reported in Jamaica alone. With many families unable to reach loved ones, the emotional toll is mounting. “It’s really, really stressful,” said Blane Lapachuk of Stony Plain, Alberta, whose daughter is currently on her honeymoon in Montego Bay. “It’ll be hell just sitting and waiting to know if your child is going to make it out.”

The situation is dire, with over 6,000 people seeking refuge in shelters across Jamaica. The principal director of the Meteorological Service, Evan Thompson, warned that conditions could lead to “catastrophic damage.” He urged residents to stay indoors and follow safety protocols to avoid life-threatening situations.

As the storm progresses, families across Canada are anxiously monitoring the situation from afar. Royson James, a retired journalist, reported difficulty reaching his elderly mother in Montego Bay due to disrupted mobile services. “They have been waiting and watching this for days,” he lamented.

Residents in Jamaica are advised to remain sheltered as the storm continues to impact the region. The severe weather is expected to affect Cuba later tonight, causing further concern for those with connections to the island.

Authorities are working tirelessly to address the situation and provide assistance where possible. For those with loved ones in Jamaica, the next updates will be crucial. Stay tuned for further developments on Hurricane Melissa’s aftermath.