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KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Water Resources Authority (WRA) has identified a significant rise in groundwater levels within the local aquifer system as the primary cause of the severe flooding currently affecting Content, Manchester. This phenomenon, known as a groundwater mound, occurs when water accumulates underground faster than it can naturally dissipate.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In response to the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa, Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has unveiled a robust Building Support Programme aimed at accelerating recovery efforts across the island. The announcement was made during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, emphasizing the initiative’s focus on empowering Members of Parliament (MPs) to lead localized relief efforts.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, residents of Trelawny, Jamaica, are grappling with a severe water shortage as the National Water Commission (NWC) struggles to restore piped water services. The Martha Brae River, which reportedly overflowed during the storm, has become a critical source of water for many. Long queues of residents have been observed along the roadway from Martha Brae to Falmouth, collecting untreated river water for essential domestic uses such as bathing, laundry, and flushing toilets. The situation has drawn significant attention, with motor vehicles lining both sides of the road as people fill containers with the available water. One resident commented, ‘It’s clean river water flowing on both sides of the road. We don’t drink it directly, but if necessary, we can boil it.’ The crisis highlights the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the aftermath of natural disasters, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure resilience and emergency response improvements.

Nicholas Lok Jack, Executive Chairman of Associated Brands Industries Limited (ABIL), has announced a significant humanitarian aid package of US$500,000 to support Jamaica in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. ABIL, the parent company of renowned brands such as Sunshine Snacks, Charles Chocolates, Devon Biscuits, and Sunshine Cereals, has committed to providing both financial and material assistance to the affected regions. The aid includes a US$250,000 cash donation to the Sandals Foundation and an additional US$250,000 worth of food and snack products, which will be distributed through various agencies to the hardest-hit communities. Lok Jack emphasized the deep connection ABIL has with Jamaica, home to over 500 employees through its subsidiary, Confectionery and Snacks (Jamaica) Limited. He praised the resilience and spirit of the Jamaican people, stating, ‘We stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, as you rebuild stronger than ever.’ The partnership with the Sandals Foundation was chosen due to its established credibility and effectiveness in delivering aid across the Caribbean. Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, expressed gratitude for ABIL’s swift and generous response, highlighting the importance of regional unity in times of crisis. Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, underscored the immediate impact of the partnership, noting that it will bring essential supplies and hope to those most affected. ABIL’s pledge reaffirms its enduring commitment to the Caribbean and its people, embodying the values of compassion and community support.

Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has once again demonstrated her commitment to community support by distributing essential care packages to residents in areas impacted by Hurricane Melissa. On Tuesday, the renowned athlete focused her efforts on communities along the St Elizabeth and Westmoreland border, continuing the relief work initiated by her Pocket Rocket Foundation. This follows her previous outreach in parts of Westmoreland on Saturday. During the distribution, a significant number of residents gathered to receive the aid, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the assistance. Fraser-Pryce’s actions highlight her dedication to helping those in need, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters. She joins a growing number of individuals and organizations contributing to recovery efforts post-Hurricane Melissa, showcasing the power of collective action in times of crisis.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which wreaked havoc in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, 71-year-old Wilhel Stone Williams shared her harrowing experience of survival and the unexpected comfort she found in her neighbor’s company. Describing the hurricane as “catastrophic,” Williams recounted the terrifying moments as the storm intensified, stripping trees of their leaves and tearing zinc sheets from her roof. Initially confident she would endure the storm alone, her composure shattered when the relentless wind began to batter her home. Panic set in as she realized the severity of the situation. Amid the chaos, Williams’ neighbor, Rosemarie Williams, whose own roof had been blown off, sought refuge in her home. “I was glad that time because that is when I get some company,” Williams said, expressing gratitude for the unexpected companionship. The storm left Williams’ home severely damaged, with leaks permeating every corner. Emotionally drained, she admitted to barely eating since the ordeal, surviving on little more than syrup. Her concern also extended to her pet goat, which she had left outside, unaware of the hurricane’s ferocity. “He’s so beautiful, and God don’t make anything happen to him,” she pleaded. Both women are now appealing for assistance to repair their homes and recover from the disaster. Those willing to help can contact Rosemarie Williams at 1 (876) 214-1501.