标签： Jamaica

In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, authorities in St Elizabeth, Jamaica, have reported the discovery of two unidentified bodies in the Black River area. Superintendent Coleidge Minto confirmed the findings, noting that one body was located along Crane Road, while the other was found in Black River. The identities of the deceased remain unknown as investigations are ongoing. Police personnel are currently at the scene, working diligently to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding these tragic discoveries. The incident has raised concerns about the broader impact of the hurricane on the region, prompting calls for heightened safety measures and disaster response efforts.

ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and emergency medical teams were mobilized on Wednesday to provide critical assistance to residents in St Elizabeth. However, their efforts have been significantly hampered by extensive debris blocking the Santa Cruz main road, a vital artery for rescue operations. Approximately nine ambulances were observed en route to Black River Hospital, where plans were in motion to relocate patients to Mandeville Regional Hospital due to the storm’s impact. Among the hardest-hit residents is Celia Coke, a local business owner from Wilton, St Elizabeth. Her shop and bar, situated along the Gilnock main road near Santa Cruz, were utterly destroyed by the hurricane. Coke, who sold items such as jelly, molasses, and honey, lamented the total loss of her livelihood. Despite the overwhelming devastation, she expressed profound gratitude for her safety and appealed for assistance to rebuild her life and support her grandson. ‘Please, I’m asking for little help. Who can help me to build up back my life … I have my grandson to look bout, please and thanks,’ she said. Those wishing to offer support can reach her at 1 (876) 852-1459.

In the early hours of Tuesday, Hurricane Melissa made its presence felt in Montego Bay, Jamaica, as a commercial building on Barnett Street suffered significant damage. At approximately 3:00 am, powerful winds associated with the hurricane dislodged a section of the building’s roof. The detached roof was carried by the wind and landed on the adjacent road and the nearby fire station compound, causing damage to several parked vehicles. Firefighters swiftly responded to the scene, clearing the debris and ensuring the road was reopened for traffic. This incident highlights the destructive potential of Hurricane Melissa as it continues to impact the region.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Hurricane Melissa, a formidable Category Five storm, looms over Jamaica, authorities are issuing urgent warnings for all citizens, particularly the younger population, to remain indoors. The hurricane is anticipated to make landfall on Tuesday, bringing with it potentially devastating winds and rainfall.

As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, the St Thomas parish council is urging residents in vulnerable areas to seek safety in the 42 emergency shelters activated across the region. Kevin McIndoe, CEO of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation, emphasized that while these shelters may not offer the comfort of home, they provide a secure refuge from the life-threatening storm. As of Monday afternoon, 600 individuals had already sought shelter, with numbers expected to rise as conditions deteriorate. However, some residents are hesitant to leave their homes, citing poor conditions in the shelters. One anonymous resident expressed concerns about inadequate food and sleeping arrangements, stating they would remain at home despite the risks. Shelly-Ann McCalla, manager of the Morant Bay Primary School shelter, acknowledged these challenges, noting that many shelters lack sufficient resources like blankets and cots. McIndoe urged those seeking refuge to bring their own supplies and encouraged donations to be coordinated through the parish council to ensure equitable distribution. Despite the discomfort, the primary goal remains saving lives as the island prepares for the hurricane’s impact.

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s landfall in Jamaica, residents of St Andrew took drastic measures to address a hazardous situation on Red Hills Road. On Tuesday, locals blocked a section of the thoroughfare near the Rubis gas station, using car tires and other materials to create a barricade. The action was prompted by dangling power lines, which posed a significant safety risk to the community. Residents reported that the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) had been informed of the issue. Hurricane Melissa struck the island earlier that day, making landfall in St Elizabeth, located in the southwestern region of Jamaica, at approximately 11 a.m. The storm’s passage has heightened concerns over infrastructure safety and emergency response capabilities in affected areas.

The life and contributions of Gerry Murray, a revered figure in Jamaican football and the Mona community, were commemorated during a heartfelt thanksgiving service on October 18 at the Church of the Ascension. Murray, who passed away at the age of 75 on September 15 at his Red Hills residence in St. Andrew, was remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, community, and the sport he loved. The service, attended by his wife Carmen, children Omari and Melissa, and brothers Richard and Michael, brought together former teammates, friends, and football legends to honor his legacy. Lennox Robinson, a former St. George’s College and Real Mona player, fondly recalled Murray’s caring nature and leadership, describing him as a ‘man for all seasons.’ Stewart Stephenson, a former teammate at Kingston College (KC) and Real Mona, praised Murray’s tenacity on the field and humble personality, noting his role in a golden era of Jamaican football. Peter Moses, another former teammate, highlighted how Murray’s spirit united the gathering, erasing the passage of time. Murray’s football journey began at Jamaica College before he transferred to KC, where he played a pivotal role in the 1967 Manning Cup victory. His talent earned him a scholarship to Michigan State University, where he majored in mechanical engineering and continued to excel on the field. The service not only celebrated Murray’s achievements but also underscored the profound impact he had on those around him.