Hurricane Melissa devastates Jamaica, prompting international aid and recovery efforts

Hurricane Melissa caused severe devastation in Jamaica, leaving many areas without power and impassable roads, with rescue operations ongoing and the death toll expected to rise. The Jamaican diaspora in New Jersey, home to approximately 73,000 Jamaicans, has mobilized relief efforts by collecting supplies such as batteries, bedding, and lanterns, with donation centers established in multiple cities including Paterson. Local officials in Jamaica are working to clear roads and manage recovery, while communities abroad closely monitor the situation due to limited communication from the island. In response, Amazon's disaster relief hub in Metro Atlanta is preparing to send 1.4 million pre-packaged emergency supplies to Jamaica, leveraging advanced technologies like drones and satellite links for efficient disaster assessment and response. The American Red Cross and Amazon collaborate to deliver essential relief items rapidly to affected areas, aiming to aid recovery and prevent further damage. These combined efforts reflect a robust international response to support Jamaica in the aftermath of the hurricane.