Hurricane Melissa‘s death toll in Jamaica has officially climbed to 32, with fears that the number could rise further. One week after the storm’s powerful winds tore through the island, government officials continue to assess the scale of the devastation while relief operations ramp up nationwide.
At a press conference on Monday, Minister of Information Senator Dana Morris Dixon explained that the figure is expected to change soon since there are an additional eight deaths under review, pending police verification.
Hurricane Melissa struck with sustained winds of up to 175 miles per hour, leaving communities across Jamaica in ruins. Numerous houses and roads are destroyed, and power lines are down, cutting off access to basic supplies and emergency services. Minister Morris Dixon acknowledged the widespread suffering, urging unity during this difficult time. “There are so many people feeling the pain of Hurricane Melissa. I see Jamaicans across the country doing what they do,” she said, commending citizens who have stepped up to help neighbours in need.
The government’s relief efforts are now focused on both recovery and restoration. Social Security Minister Pearnel Charles Jr described the situation as “heart-wrenching,” noting that roughly 25 communities remain completely cut off. “Several families have lost everything. I mean everything,” he said, outlining ongoing operations to deliver food, water, and medical supplies to stranded residents.
With air and ground support from the Jamaica Defence Force and international partners, over 30,000 food packages have been distributed so far. Teams are continuing to venture into hard-to-reach areas, many of which are still inaccessible by road.
Meanwhile, attention is turning toward getting children back into schools. As Minister of Education, Senator Morris Dixon announced that decisions on reopening will be left to individual principals and school boards. She revealed that psychosocial support teams are available for students, teachers, and parents affected by the disaster.