How Many Lives Did Hurricane Melissa Claim?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 75 lives lost due to Hurricane Melissa.
- Nearly 5 million people affected across the Caribbean.
- Over 770,000 individuals displaced.
- UN mobilizing humanitarian efforts in Cuba, Haiti, and Jamaica.
- Focus on providing clean water and health supplies.
United Nations, Nov 8 (NationPress) Hurricane Melissa has tragically resulted in the loss of at least 75 lives and has affected nearly 5 million individuals across Cuba, Haiti, and Jamaica just one week after its landfall in the Caribbean, as reported by a UN spokesperson.
Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, stated during a daily briefing that the hurricane has displaced over 770,000 people and has caused severe damage to tens of thousands of homes, schools, and healthcare facilities, according to Xinhua news agency.
"We and our partners are committed to supporting authorities in all three nations," he mentioned.
In Jamaica, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has sent additional personnel to assist the government with humanitarian challenges and enhance operations, as reported by Haq.
In Cuba, the Food and Agriculture Organization has provided agricultural tools, livestock feed, and fishing supplies aimed at restoring livelihoods. Meanwhile, the World Food Programme has established mobile warehouses, lighting towers, and tents for the eastern provinces.
Various UN agencies are actively involved in delivering essential humanitarian aid throughout the region, according to Haq.
The United Nations Population Fund is distributing reproductive health kits and closely working with local partners to both prevent and address instances of gender-based violence, ensuring that the unique needs of women and girls are prioritized during this crisis.
On the other hand, the United Nations Development Programme is supplying vital roofing materials, toolkits, and generators to assist communities in rebuilding infrastructure and to promote early recovery.
Additionally, the United Nations Children’s Fund is providing water storage and treatment supplies intended to deliver clean and safe drinking water to as many as 16,000 individuals daily, helping to avert disease and enhance living conditions for affected families.