Hurricane Melissa: 50 Dead in the Caribbean
- * Widespread Damage: Jamaica has suffered extensive damage from a recent storm.
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* Widespread Damage: Jamaica has suffered extensive damage from a recent storm. This includes destroyed houses, flooded streets, fallen trees, and damage to hospitals, schools, churches, and bridges.
* Black river heavily Impacted: Over 90% of houses in the town of Black River (southwest coast) were damaged, and some historical buildings were fully destroyed.
* Cleanup Efforts: Cleanup is focused on clearing roads, especially in Montego Bay (northwest). Crews are using equipment and even machetes to remove debris.
* Remote Areas Cut Off: Many communities remain isolated two days after the storm.
* Focus on Aid: The immediate priorities are providing food and medical assistance to those in need.
* Airports Reopening: Kingston’s airport has reopened for relief flights, and Montego Bay’s airport is expected to reopen soon. Approximately 25,000 tourists were on the island, including a high double-digit number of Germans.
* Estimated Economic Impact: Initial estimates suggest total damage and economic losses could range from $48 to $52 billion US dollars (approximately €41 to €45 billion).