‘Every minute counts’ - JDF urges citizens to clear landing zones for relief missions

The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is calling on residents in communities hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa to help clear debris from football fields, community centres, and other large open spaces to allow helicopters to land safely for search-and-rescue and relief operations.

With many areas still cut off by road, air support has become essential for delivering food, water, medical aid, and other emergency supplies. The JDF says that every cleared space could make the difference between life and death for someone waiting to be rescued.

Acting Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier O'Neil Bogle stressed the urgency of the operation and the power of community support.

"Every minute counts," Bogle said, five days after the deadly and dangerous hurricane caused destruction throughout western Jamaica.

"By helping to clear these open spaces, citizens are directly supporting lifesaving operations. The Jamaica Defence Force stands with the people of Jamaica, and asks for the continued effort of everyone to ensure that relief gets to those who need it, as quickly and safely as possible," Bogle said.

The JDF continues to work alongside the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS), and other national agencies to restore access and coordinate aid delivery across the island.

Residents are urged to take safety precautions during clean-up efforts and to avoid downed power lines, unstable structures, and flooded areas.