United Nations, Nov 1 (NationPress) The United Nations and its partners are rapidly mobilizing to coordinate and deliver essential aid across the Caribbean in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, as reported by UN humanitarian officials.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is collaborating with various partners to assist millions affected by the storm in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, according to Xinhua news agency.

“In challenging times like these, international solidarity is not merely a principle; it acts as a lifeline,” stated Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator.

In Cuba, Hurricane Melissa impacted the eastern provinces, with initial assessments revealing significant destruction in Santiago, Holguin, Granma, and Guantanamo, as noted by OCHA.

“Numerous communities remain cut off, and access continues to be restricted due to damaged roads, railways, and airports,” the office added.

OCHA is also working on a UN action plan to guide the relief efforts, with a team currently deployed in the region and further assistance from its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean.

In Jamaica, where the government is spearheading a comprehensive national response, OCHA is aiding coordination efforts with the Rapid Needs Assessment Teams led by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency.

The office mentioned that the Food and Agriculture Organization, the UN Children's Fund, the UN Population Fund, and the International Organization for Migration will be involved in the assessments taking place in Jamaica.

In Haiti, already facing a severe humanitarian crisis and rampant violence, humanitarian teams are addressing urgent needs in collaboration with national authorities. UN agencies and partners are assisting with temporary shelters and providing food, non-food items, and cash support, as reported by OCHA.