UN calls for global support for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

Category 5 storm leaves widespread devastation

In a statement released after his phone call with Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Guterres highlighted that the country is reeling from the effects of the category 5 hurricane, which brought torrential rain, massive storm surges, and catastrophic flooding across several regions.

UN Mobilises emergency resources

Guterres called for the mobilisation of substantial resources to help Jamaica recover from the extensive loss and damage caused by the hurricane. UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher announced the allocation of US$4 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to expand emergency humanitarian operations, providing food, shelter, clean water, and medical aid to affected communities.

UNICEF responds to children’s needs

According to UNICEF, more than 700,000 children across the Caribbean have been affected by the hurricane, which also struck Cuba and western Haiti. The agency is working closely with the Jamaican Government to assist over 284,000 children by addressing urgent nutrition requirements, ensuring access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene, and offering mental health support.