Jamaica’s northern and western regions, still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, may face further challenges this week as adverse weather conditions threaten to disrupt ongoing relief operations. The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) has forecast intermittent showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds from Tuesday through Thursday, potentially hampering recovery efforts in several parishes. Alvin Gayle, Director General of ODPEM, emphasized that even moderate rainfall could complicate relief work, particularly in northern parishes where many homes remain roofless. During a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister, Gayle detailed the expected weather patterns, noting that isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds would likely affect western parishes as well. In preparation, ODPEM and its partners have distributed over 80% of the 45,000 tarpaulins available on the island to provide temporary shelter. Gayle highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to address immediate shelter needs while supporting long-term recovery goals. Despite these efforts, the forecasted weather could slow progress in areas still recovering from the hurricane’s devastation.