NEW YORK, USA – Across the Caribbean, the United Nations and partners are moving at top speed to help communities impacted by hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest storms on record in the Atlantic. Supplies are moving, coordination hubs are active, and emergency teams are supporting government responses in Jamaica, Cuba and Haiti.
“Millions of people are caught in the storm’s path and need urgent help,” said Tom Fletcher, under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator.
“In times like this, international solidarity isn’t just a principle – it’s a lifeline.”
In Jamaica, where the hurricane left widespread destruction, the government is leading a robust national response, with UN support. A team from OCHA, the UN humanitarian office, has been deployed to strengthen coordination and information management. UN agencies and non-governmental organizations are helping restore access, deliver emergency health and water services, and assist communities whose homes, schools and hospitals have been hit hard.
In Cuba, early action has already made a difference. A US$4 million allocation from the OCHA-managed Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), allowed UN agencies to position life-saving support before the storm hit. The World Food Programme (WFP) provided food for 180,000 people; UNICEF deployed mobile water-treatment units and hygiene kits for thousands; the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) airlifted medical supplies and generators; the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UN Development Programme (UNDP) moved seeds and tarpaulins to protect livelihoods and homes; and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) distributed health and dignity kits. The Cuban Red Cross is assisting with preventive evacuations, early-warning messages and psychosocial support, in coordination with the International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC).
In Haiti, a country reeling from a massive humanitarian crisis and deadly armed violence, humanitarian teams are working alongside national authorities to respond to the urgent needs. Several days before the hurricane struck, another US$4 million CERF allocation allowed humanitarian agencies to prepare supplies ahead of time. In addition, over 3.5 million early warning messages were sent out to vulnerable populations, saving lives. UN agencies and partners are now supporting temporary shelters and providing food, shelter, non-food items and cash assistance.
“Local leadership, global solidarity, and early action are saving lives across the region,” Fletcher said. “This is the humanitarian reset at work – acting together with greater impact.”
- Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people devastated by hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba with urgent support.
