International Organization for Migration prepares aid for Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa approaches

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is sending a shipment of relief items from its Caribbean Logistics Hub in Barbados to Jamaica as Hurricane Melissa approaches.

It said the items are to support vulnerable communities at risk of flooding, landslides, and hurricane-force winds.

The shipment, which is expected to arrive by Thursday, includes solar lamps, hygiene kits, bedding, air mattresses, indoor tents, shelter repair kits, ropes, tarpaulins, and generators.

The IOM said the shipment follows a request by the Jamaican Government for support from the United Nations and other international partners to bolster its emergency response.

"Hurricane Melissa poses a serious threat to Jamaica. We anticipate that many people will be displaced from their homes and in urgent need of emergency shelter and relief. Our emergency response team is already engaged, focusing on shelter, non-food items, and critical data and information needs," said IOM interim Head-of-Office Natasha Greaves in a statement issued on Sunday.

The organisation said it is also leveraging partnerships with AirBNB for accommodation, DHL for transport and logistics, and Microsoft for damage data analysis, while mobilising staff from regional offices to join the Jamaica team.

It said all actions are coordinated with national authorities to ensure aid reaches those most in need.

The Met Service warns that Melissa, a Category 4 hurricane, could bring 15–30 inches of rainfall, creating a high risk of flooding and landslides. The storm is expected make landfall Monday night or Tuesday morning.

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