As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, the St Thomas parish council is urging residents in vulnerable areas to seek safety in the 42 emergency shelters activated across the region. Kevin McIndoe, CEO of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation, emphasized that while these shelters may not offer the comfort of home, they provide a secure refuge from the life-threatening storm. As of Monday afternoon, 600 individuals had already sought shelter, with numbers expected to rise as conditions deteriorate. However, some residents are hesitant to leave their homes, citing poor conditions in the shelters. One anonymous resident expressed concerns about inadequate food and sleeping arrangements, stating they would remain at home despite the risks. Shelly-Ann McCalla, manager of the Morant Bay Primary School shelter, acknowledged these challenges, noting that many shelters lack sufficient resources like blankets and cots. McIndoe urged those seeking refuge to bring their own supplies and encouraged donations to be coordinated through the parish council to ensure equitable distribution. Despite the discomfort, the primary goal remains saving lives as the island prepares for the hurricane’s impact.