ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Desmond McKenzie, says St James suffered extensive damage due to the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking at a media conference on Wednesday, McKenzie revealed that among the most significant incidents was the overflow of the Barnett River in Montego Bay, where up to 16 feet of water affected sections of the city.

Areas impacted include Westgate, Catherine Hall, Howard Cooke Boulevard, Freeport, Alice Eldemire Drive, and Barnett Street.

He noted that several public facilities also suffered extensive damage. The St James Infirmary and the St James Municipal Corporation’s building were both flooded, with two floors affected.

At Jarrett Park, where members of the homeless population had been housed, residents had to be relocated due to flooding. The St James High School and the Sangster International Airport also sustained damage.

The minister said he has also been in contact with officials in other parishes, including Trelawny, Hanover, Westmoreland, and St Elizabeth, where most of the reports have been distress calls.

READ: #EyeOnMelissa: Montego Bay wakes up to destruction after Hurricane Melissa