Reverend Canon Hartley Perrin described catastrophic conditions across Westmoreland parish after Hurricane Melissa destroyed communities and left residents without shelter or necessities. The Custos of Westmoreland and Rector of St. Peter's Anglican Church in Petersfield told radio audiences that every tree has fallen, homes have been flattened to scattered lumber, and utility infrastructure lies in ruins. At least five deaths occurred in Petersfield alone from falling trees, flying metal sheets, drowning, and trauma, with bodies remaining for days before transport to morgues became possible. Dead livestock now creates an overpowering stench throughout affected areas.
The 1843 St. Peter's Anglican Church lost its entire roof and all windows despite an $8 million restoration following Hurricane Beryl last year. Petersfield Primary School and nearby Coke's View Primary sustained severe damage that will delay reopening. Mannings High School in Sav-la-Mar saw the destruction of the Thomas Manning building, constructed in 1738 and recognized as a heritage site. Sav-la-Mar Hospital suffered extensive roof damage that exposed interior spaces.
Perrin noted that residents without Starlink lack communication capabilities, while blocked roads and downed power lines hamper relief deliveries requiring police escorts to prevent looting. The clergyman closed his interview with a prayer requesting comfort for displaced families and guidance for Jamaica's recovery.
The 1843 St. Peter's Anglican Church lost its entire roof and all windows despite an $8 million restoration following Hurricane Beryl last year. Petersfield Primary School and nearby Coke's View Primary sustained severe damage that will delay reopening. Mannings High School in Sav-la-Mar saw the destruction of the Thomas Manning building, constructed in 1738 and recognized as a heritage site. Sav-la-Mar Hospital suffered extensive roof damage that exposed interior spaces.
Perrin noted that residents without Starlink lack communication capabilities, while blocked roads and downed power lines hamper relief deliveries requiring police escorts to prevent looting. The clergyman closed his interview with a prayer requesting comfort for displaced families and guidance for Jamaica's recovery.
