Members of the Caribbean association in the Waterloo region of Ontario are experiencing a mix of anxiety and hope following the landfall of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica on Tuesday. The powerful Category 5 storm hit the island’s southwestern coast around 1 p.m. ET, as reported by the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
Lannois Carrol-Woolery, the president of the Canadian Caribbean Association of Waterloo Region (CCAWR), mentioned that many members have ties to Jamaica and are using platforms like WhatsApp and social media to stay connected with their families on the island. He shared that the community is on edge, recalling memories of past hurricanes like Hurricane Gilbert, and is eagerly awaiting updates from loved ones.
The storm caused significant damage to the south coast and west of Jamaica, with wind speeds exceeding 295 km/h, leaving over 350,000 customers without power initially. By the next morning, the number of people without electricity had risen to over 500,000. Reports indicated widespread destruction, including fallen trees, power outages, and severe flooding, leading to substantial infrastructure damage.
Hurricane Melissa later moved on to eastern Cuba as a Category 3 storm on Wednesday. Carrol-Woolery, who hails from Jamaica, recounted his experiences during Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, emphasizing the catastrophic impact such storms can have on communities.
Despite the challenges, Carrol-Woolery expressed confidence in Jamaica’s resilience but acknowledged the urgent need for assistance in the recovery efforts. The CCAWR launched an online campaign to raise funds for the affected areas, highlighting the importance of monetary donations due to the logistical difficulties in sending physical aid.
The association’s executive director, Devon Harnarain, extended solidarity to those impacted by the hurricane, emphasizing the strength and unity of the Caribbean community. Efforts are underway to coordinate support with local agencies on the ground, with updates on relief initiatives available online for donors.
Donette Spence, a board member of the association, emphasized the ongoing communication and coordination to mobilize relief efforts efficiently. Clive Forrester, another board member, echoed the sentiments of resilience within the Jamaican community, expressing optimism that Jamaica will overcome the challenges posed by Hurricane Melissa.
As the community rallies together to support recovery efforts, members are keeping a close eye on developments and maintaining connections with their families in the affected regions, demonstrating solidarity and determination in the face of adversity.