October 31, 2025
Jamaica to Airlift Food Aid into Communities Cut Off by Hurricane Melissa as U.S. Disaster Team Arrives on Island
KINGSTON, JAMAICA — The Jamaican government has confirmed that it will begin airlifting food, water, and emergency supplies to communities rendered inaccessible by Hurricane Melissa, as widespread infrastructure damage continues to isolate large sections of the island.
Jamaica's Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness comforts a tearful survivor while visiting communites devastated by Hurricane Melissa
Speaking from Norman Manley International Airport, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, announced the arrival of the United States Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) and additional recovery resources.
“We are here at the airport to receive specialists who know how to do this—who have been through areas that have suffered disasters,” the Minister stated. “They will work with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and ODPEM to reach those communities that remain inaccessible.”
Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon
The Minister confirmed that helicopters are en route and will be used to airdrop critical supplies into remote areas, including St. Elizabeth, Manchester, and Portland, where roads have been washed out and bridges destroyed.
The U.S. Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) has arrived in Jamaica to coordinate humanitarian support following Hurricane Melissa. @StateDept is working with the Government of Jamaica and local partners to assist those most affected. pic.twitter.com/RpbEud8Khm
— Department of State (@StateDept) October 31, 2025
The airlift operation will prioritize emergency food, clean drinking water, medical aid and hygiene kits including temporary shelter materials and solar lights.
The DART team joins a growing coalition of international responders, including Samaritan’s Purse, which has deployed aircraft and disaster response teams. World Food Programme (WFP) is coordinating logistics and food distribution. The Red Cross has launched a $23 million emergency appeal to support 180,000 people across Jamaica and the region. These agencies are working in close coordination with Jamaican authorities to deliver aid by land, sea, and air.
Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 5 storm, with sustained winds of 185 mph. It devastated roads, bridges, hospitals, and schools—leaving entire towns unreachable. Over 77% of the population is without electricity, and many remain displaced.
JamRadio UK continues to highlight the urgent needs of those stranded without power, food, or communication. We urge UK-based diaspora groups, charities, and public officials to support Jamaica’s recovery and demand accountability for delays in aid delivery.
