We’re getting to the end of the worst storm in Jamaica’s modern history.
Here in Kingston, the capital, the winds are starting to subside – but the storm isn’t over yet. Authorities are urging residents to stay in their shelters until sunrise, in about an hour.
The eye of Hurricane Melissa has passed over Jamaica, but its tail can still cause damage. The National Hurricane Center has warned an additional 3 to 6 inches (7 to 15 centimeters) of rain could still fall on the island. That would bring the total rainfall in some areas – particularly the mountainous parts in the center of the island – to over 2 feet (60 centimeters).
What we’ve seen unfold is truly catastrophic – especially in the parishes west of Kingston. Infrastructure has collapsed, and some communities will likely be isolated for days.
When we get first light, we’ll be heading out to take stock of the damage and see what we can find.
