Jamaican authorities reported on Monday that Hurricane Melissa has claimed 32 lives in the country, with eight additional fatalities still under review. Education Minister Dana Morris Dixon delivered the updated figures during a government briefing at Jamaica House in Kingston, warning that the count will likely grow as investigators examine more reports from affected areas.
The death toll has jumped significantly since October 30, when officials had confirmed 19 victims. Morris Dixon acknowledged the emotional weight of each addition to the list, expressing sympathy for grieving families throughout the nation. The minister emphasized that authorities will continue providing updates as new information becomes available.
The powerful storm struck Jamaica's western region on Tuesday, October 28, causing extensive damage and forcing thousands from their homes. Personnel from the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Jamaica Defence Force have deployed helicopters and ground teams to retrieve bodies and support relief operations. Beyond Jamaica, the hurricane resulted in 34 deaths in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic, pushing the overall regional toll to 67 people.
The death toll has jumped significantly since October 30, when officials had confirmed 19 victims. Morris Dixon acknowledged the emotional weight of each addition to the list, expressing sympathy for grieving families throughout the nation. The minister emphasized that authorities will continue providing updates as new information becomes available.
The powerful storm struck Jamaica's western region on Tuesday, October 28, causing extensive damage and forcing thousands from their homes. Personnel from the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Jamaica Defence Force have deployed helicopters and ground teams to retrieve bodies and support relief operations. Beyond Jamaica, the hurricane resulted in 34 deaths in Haiti and one in the Dominican Republic, pushing the overall regional toll to 67 people.
