Hurricane Melissa is approaching Jamaica with winds of up to 280 kilometres per hour. The government has declared the highest state of alert, and evacuations have been ordered in several areas. According to media reports, Melissa could become the strongest storm ever recorded in Jamaica.
Hurricane Melissa is approaching Jamaica with winds of up to 280 kilometres per hour. The government has declared the highest state of alert, and evacuations have been ordered in several areas. According to media reports, Melissa could become the strongest storm ever recorded in Jamaica.
The hurricane puts approximately 700,000 children in Jamaica at risk, and several other Caribbean islands lie in its projected path. Hurricanes often cause devastating destruction with severe and long-lasting consequences for children and their families. UNICEF teams in Jamaica are preparing to respond swiftly to support affected children and families.
Already last week, UNICEF, in collaboration with the authorities, implemented preventive measures. Pre-positioned supplies are ready, including hygiene kits, water purification devices, water containers and medical equipment.
In recent days, Haiti and the Dominican Republic have experienced heavy rainfall and flooding, with at least four people losing their lives. Cuba is also under threat from the hurricane and could face serious damage. UNICEF has life-saving supplies ready in these countries to support children and families in need.