Premier Cora Richardson Hodge and Governor Julia Crouch have penned a message of “solidarity and support” to those affected by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
The Category 5 storm swept across the island nation from the evening of Tuesday, 28 October, into the morning of Wednesday, 29 October.
Sustained winds of up to 185 miles per hour caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure across the western districts and resulted in a reported five deaths.
In a joint statement on 29 October, the premier and governor offered support on behalf of the government and people of Anguilla in the “devastating aftermath” of the storm.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected in their time of need, and we offer our condolences to families who now grieve the loss of loved ones,” they wrote.
“The impact of this devastating hurricane will be significant both in the short and long term.”
They said the Department of Disaster Management is working with regional partners and organisations to identify any practical assistance to meet the specific needs identified by the Government of Jamaica.
“As Caribbean communities, our strength lies in our support for our neighbours and friends when faced with such terrible natural disasters,” the two leaders said.
“To the people of Jamaica, we stand with you and will do all we can to support you.”
They added that they are also thinking of those in Anguilla who are waiting for news from family and in Jamaica.
