Hurricane Melissa, the world’s strongest storm this year, is set to make landfall on Jamaica’s south coast early on Tuesday. It brings with it sustained winds of 175 mph (281 km/h).
Officials have warned of a “catastrophic” situation. This includes flash flooding, landslides, and a storm surge of up to four metres. The slow-moving nature of the hurricane is expected to worsen its impact.
Even before making landfall, the storm has had deadly consequences. Four people have died in Jamaica during preparations. Another 13 were injured in falls while trying to secure their homes. Approximately 50,000 people are already without power.
SMread: South Africa exits financial grey-list
Aid organisations mobilise
In response to the unfolding crisis, aid organisations are mobilising. Direct Relief, a humanitarian aid organisation, has committed an initial $250,000 (R4.3 million). It has also offered its entire medical inventory to Caribbean health providers.
The organisation is preparing emergency shipments. These include field medic packs for first responders. They also contain personal care products for displaced people.
This response builds on long-term support for the region. Direct Relief has pre-positioned hurricane preparedness packs across the Caribbean. These caches contain enough medical aid to treat thousands of people. This ensures a swift humanitarian response is possible, even if infrastructure is damaged.
Jamaican officials have urged residents to take the threat seriously. Evacuation efforts are underway, though many have been reluctant to leave their homes.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has asked for prayers for the nation. The government has shut schools and public transport in vulnerable areas. Shelters have been opened for those fleeing the storm’s path.
