From Jeff Lockhart, Pastor, Jamaica:

It has been only 72 hours since Hurricane Melissa’s eye passed over Jamaica, leaving behind total destruction. One weather report compared the storm’s force to an EF 5 tornado, 20 miles wide.

Although Jamaicans are resilient and much progress has already been made, full recovery will take many months, and in some cases, years.

Kingston continues to face issues with power, water, internet, and cell service. However, the city was spared the worst of the storm’s effects. All of our members there are safe, with mostly minor home damage—except for one family whose roof has holes. Kingston has recovered enough to resume regular church services tomorrow, November 1, for those who can attend.

The situation around Montego Bay and to the west is much more severe. Flooding and thick layers of mud will take a long time to clear. We are still waiting to hear from nine members of the Montego Bay congregation, though the lack of cell service is likely the reason for no contact. Two families have had trees fall on their homes.

Members are slowly clearing debris around their homes and neighborhoods. Some with vehicles are driving to areas with cell service to reach other members. Roads on the western side of the island remain dangerous. One news report described drivers stuck for 24 hours because debris blocked the road.

We are grateful for the generous donations to Good Works to support our Jamaican brethren. Beyond the damage, many members cannot purchase everyday items, as most deliveries focus on building and infrastructure supplies. We are also hearing that some people will be without income, as their employers are delaying employees’ return to work.

Pastor Jeff Lockhart will travel to the Montego Bay area on Tuesday to deliver supplies and assess long-term needs. The Montego Bay airport is expected to be open on a limited basis by then.

Thank you for your continued prayers for the Jamaican brethren and all those affected by the storm, and please also keep Jeff’s upcoming travels in your prayers for safety, productivity, and encouragement to the brethren.

This information is private and intended only for members of the United Church of God. These requests are not to be posted to any public website or social media platforms, or distributed beyond the local congregations of the United Church of God in any form.