KINGSTON, Jamaica — Close to 15,000 Jamaicans remain in shelters across the island as the country continues to grapple with the widespread devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, says the shelters will remain open “for as long as necessary” to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected citizens.

The storm’s powerful winds and torrential rains have left a trail of destruction islandwide. The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) has reported that more than 530,000 customers, over 77% of its network are without electricity.

Several hospitals have sustained serious damage. Falmouth Hospital was impacted by storm surge, while Noel Holmes and Cornwall Regional Hospitals in western Jamaica experienced flooding and wind damage. The Black River Hospital in St. Elizabeth has been without power, and sections of its roof were damaged. The Minister of Health and Wellness has launched an assessment of all medical facilities, and 75 patients were relocated from the Black River Hospital to safer locations.

Reports from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) indicate that almost every parish has recorded blocked roads, fallen trees, downed utility poles, and severe flooding in several communities.

According to the Minister the National Works Agency (NWA) is mobilising to clear roads that can be cleared during this time.