ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — Members of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and ambulance teams were deployed on Wednesday to assist residents affected by Hurricane Melissa in St Elizabeth. However, they have since encountered major challenges along the Santa Cruz main road, where fallen debris has blocked the roadway.

Observer Online saw about nine ambulances en route to the Black River Hospital, where efforts were underway to transfer patients to the Mandeville Regional Hospital.

Among those severely affected by the hurricane is Celia Coke, a resident of Wilton, St Elizabeth. She told Observer Online that her shop and bar, located along the Gilnock main road near Santa Cruz, were completely destroyed.

Resident of St Elizabeth, Celia Coke (Photo: Kasey Williams)

Coke shared that she used to sell jelly, molasses and honey among other things.

“Everything, everything, everything mash down,” she said.

Despite the devastation, Coke expressed gratitude for her safety, adding that any assistance to help her rebuild would be deeply appreciated.

“Please, I’m asking for little help. Who can help me to build up back my life … I have my grandson to look bout, please and thanks,” she said.

She can be reached at 1 (876) 852-1459.

(Video: Kasey Williams)