Horace McFarlane, a long-time resident of Content District in Manchester, Jamaica, is grappling with the aftermath of unprecedented flooding caused by rising groundwater. His home, now submerged, is a stark reminder of the community’s vulnerability to natural disasters. The flooding, which occurred days after Hurricane Melissa, has left 15 houses underwater, with only rooftops visible in some areas. McFarlane, who has lived in Content for over two decades, recounted how the water rose overnight, forcing his family to evacuate and scatter to different locations. Despite his efforts to save his belongings, including a newly installed zinc roof, the damage has been catastrophic. The phenomenon, explained by Peter Clarke of the Water Resources Authority, is due to a limestone aquifer filled to capacity, causing water to surface through sinkholes. The community, once a bustling district, now resembles a beachside, drawing curious onlookers and vendors. For McFarlane, however, the sight is a painful reminder of his loss. Suffering from health issues, he struggles to cope with the trauma, while his wife refuses to return to their home. The flooding has also revived memories of the 1979 disaster that reshaped the region. As residents and authorities work to address the crisis, McFarlane’s story highlights the human toll of environmental challenges.
