Hurricane Melissa death toll in Jamaica climbs to 28

The Government is reporting that the death toll from Hurricane Melissa has risen to 28.

The update was provided on Saturday.

The Category 5 storm made landfall on Tuesday, causing widespread devastation in western parishes.

“We extend heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and communities mourning their loved ones,” said the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM).

OPM says reports of possible fatalities are still being verified, noting that the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), and the Ministry of Health & Wellness are coordinating the recovery and verification process.

The Government says it will provide further updates as verification progresses, and recovery operations advance in the coming days.

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