Heavy Rains And Flood Risks Force Jamaican Officials To Activate Emergency Shelters

As Hurricane Melissa, a highly perilous storm, approaches Jamaica, the Chief Executive of the St. Thomas Municipal Corporation is urging at-risk residents to find safety in one of the 42 emergency shelters activated throughout the parish. Although acknowledging that these shelters may lack the comforts of home, he stressed their importance as secure havens in the face of such a devastating storm. An advisory released at 11:00 a.m. EDT on October 28 warns of imminent threats including massive infrastructure damage, severe flash flooding, landslides, and violent winds expected to affect the entire island. By 4:00 p.m. on October 27, approximately 600 individuals had sought refuge in shelters, a number anticipated to rise as hurricane-force winds commence. Shelter manager Shelly-Ann McCalla noted that discomfort often deters individuals from using these facilities. McIndoe urged shelter attendees to bring their own linens and supplies, while charitable donations should be coordinated through the St. Thomas Municipal Corporation for fair distribution. Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center alerts residents in the wider region of similar impending threats.