Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is responding to Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall as a Category 5 hurricane in Jamaica, also striking Cuba and other island nations on its path through the Caribbean.
Initial assessments show catastrophic destruction around the core path of the storm, and throughout the impacted region, devastating flooding and debris are isolating communities in several of these island nations. Along with loss of life, livelihoods and shelter have been destroyed. It will take years to recover.
After initial needs are addressed, PDA will remain — working alongside partners throughout the affected islands to support long-term recovery, resilience for leaders and communities, and addressing unmet needs.