Jamaica confirms 45 deaths from Hurricane Melissa

The death toll from Hurricane Melissa has climbed to 45, authorities confirmed on Tuesday, even as 15 people remain missing in the storm's aftermath.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) shared the updated figures during a special media briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister.

Information Minister Dr Dana Morris Dixon said St Elizabeth recorded the highest number of deaths with 18, followed by 15 in Westmoreland. St James reported six deaths, Hanover and Trelawny had two each, while St Ann and Portland recorded one each.

"That's 45 families that are hurting," Morris Dixon said, as she extended condolences to the relatives of the victims.

The deaths were confirmed through investigations by the police, assisted by the army. So far, 33 post-mortem examinations have been completed, with others still pending..

- Livern Barrett

We want to hear from you! Email us at star@gleanerjm.com and follow @thejamaicastar on Instagram and on X @JamaicaStar and on Facebook: @TheJamaicaStar, or on Whatsapp @ 876-550-2506.