A family in the John’s Hall community of St James, Jamaica, faces the imminent loss of their home after a portion of its foundation was eroded by floodwaters linked to Hurricane Melissa. The house, owned by Lincoln James, a former principal of Howard Cooke Primary School, has been severely compromised, rendering it unsafe for habitation. James revealed that the family has relocated to another dwelling on the property, avoiding the unstable structure. He described the interior as feeling like ‘going downhill,’ highlighting the extent of the damage. The family’s belongings, including furniture, remain inside, with only a few essential items salvaged. James’s car is also precariously positioned against the house, prompting him to seek assistance from his insurance provider. James attributed the disaster to a shift in the water channel caused by a landslide and a mango tree that obstructed the natural flow. The family was unaware of the damage until James’s son noticed the issue, forcing them to evacuate hastily. The incident underscores the devastating impact of natural disasters on vulnerable communities.
