UK Evacuates Britons from Jamaica, Sends Aid Amid Hurricane Melissa
The recent landfall of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has led to widespread devastation. Striking as a Category 5 storm, it is considered one of the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded in the Caribbean. The hurricane left many communities in ruins and resulted in a significant loss of life, particularly in Haiti, where at least 30 fatalities have been reported.
Impact on Communities
In Jamaica, entire neighborhoods have been described as marooned or flattened. Dana Morris Dixon, Jamaica’s Information Minister, provided updates on the dire situation. Around 8,000 British citizens were present on the island when the storm struck.
UK Response and Evacuations
Following the hurricane, the UK Foreign Office urged its citizens to register their presence and to check airline options for returning home. The British government allocated an immediate financial support package of £2.5 million for the affected region, with an additional £5 million announced by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. This funding aims to address the overwhelming need for assistance in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
International Aid Efforts
The British Red Cross is taking action to support the crisis. A donation from the King and Queen will aid the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC). Their efforts currently focus on search and rescue operations, healthcare access, safe shelter, and the provision of clean water in Jamaica.
Current Conditions in Jamaica
- 72% of the population remains without electricity.
- Approximately 6,000 individuals are residing in emergency shelters.
- Many people are relying on aid agencies for generators, which are crucial given the damaged power grid.
- Tarpaulins are also essential for addressing the housing crisis.
The humanitarian crisis has led to increased desperation among residents. Reports indicate that some individuals are entering supermarkets to secure food supplies. Long queues are forming at petrol stations, where many wait for hours only to find no fuel available. The lack of electricity has left most of the island in darkness, complicating communication and transportation efforts.
The situation remains critical as recovery efforts continue in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destruction. The international community is urged to support Jamaica during this challenging time.
