IOM Mobilizes Emergency Relief as Hurricane Melissa Closes in on Jamaica

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is preparing emergency relief as Jamaica faces the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa.

Natasha Greaves, Head of Office for IOM in Jamaica, said, “We anticipate that many people will be displaced from their homes and in urgent need of emergency shelter and relief.”

Greaves added that IOM’s emergency response team is already working within Jamaica’s coordinated national system, focusing on shelter, essential supplies, and data needs. “Our existing and trusted partnerships will help us reach those who need help most and in the soonest possible time,” she added.

Melissa’s outer bands have already brought heavy rainfall and strong winds across the island. The Meteorological Service of Jamaica warned of “catastrophic flash floods and landslides” as the storm moves closer to landfall.

Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for vulnerable areas.

Melissa has already killed three people in Haiti and one person in the Dominican Republic in the past days.