ST JAMES, Jamaica — Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, has disclosed that St James Parish experienced widespread devastation following the onslaught of Hurricane Melissa. Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, McKenzie highlighted the overflow of the Barnett River in Montego Bay as one of the most critical incidents, with floodwaters reaching up to 16 feet in certain areas of the city. The affected zones encompass Westgate, Catherine Hall, Howard Cooke Boulevard, Freeport, Alice Eldemire Drive, and Barnett Street. McKenzie further elaborated that several public institutions sustained significant damage. The St James Infirmary and the St James Municipal Corporation’s building were inundated, with water impacting two floors. Additionally, Jarrett Park, which had been serving as a temporary shelter for the homeless, was flooded, necessitating the relocation of its residents. The St James High School and Sangster International Airport also reported damage. The minister has been in communication with officials from neighboring parishes, including Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St Elizabeth, where distress calls have been predominant.