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The number of fatalities from the devastating hurricane Melissa in Jamaica has risen to 45, while 15 people remain missing, local authorities reported on Tuesday.
According to reports, the number could increase in the coming hours, as rescue efforts have not yet reached two communities in the west of the island that have been cut off since October 28, when the powerful hurricane made landfall as a Category 5, reported the agency AP.
“We continue to attempt to reach the isolated areas. Our helicopters have been dropping food and essential supplies,” explained Alvin Gayle, the Director General of the Jamaica Emergency Management Office.
The powerful weather phenomenon left a trail of unprecedented destruction, with over 30,000 displaced homes and 1,100 people sheltering in 88 emergency shelters that are still operational.
The UN expressed concern about the housing situation, as 40,000 tarps intended for the victims have been unable to be delivered due to the collapse of roads and bridges.
“The shelter remains an urgent priority,” stated the Deputy Spokesperson for the United Nations, Farhan Haq, while calling for international cooperation to expedite humanitarian assistance.
In that country, the road infrastructure was also destroyed. At least three dozen roads remain blocked by debris, and emergency crews are working tirelessly to restore basic services.
The authorities reported that 50% of users now have mobile service, while more than 70% have access to drinking water again.
Regarding the electricity supply, power has been restored to over 60% of customers, a significant improvement following the hurricane's impact.
"It is an important achievement considering the magnitude of the destruction," said Hugh Grant, president and CEO of Jamaica's state-owned electric company.
The Jamaican government maintains an active national state of emergency, while rescue teams, volunteers, and international organizations continue to work to assist those affected and rebuild the most impacted areas.
Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful in recent Caribbean history, has left behind a humanitarian crisis that could take months to resolve. In the neighboring island of Cuba, there are still people who have been evacuated.
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