Hurricane Melissa, a Category 4 storm moving across the Caribbean Sea, has put at least 1.6 million children at risk, according to UNICEF estimates.
The hurricane is forecast to strengthen to Category 5, with sustained winds of at least 157 mph (about 252 kmh). Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic are expected to endure several days of weather that could disrupt services, particularly in coastal areas.
“All efforts to prepare for the arrival of hurricane are vital to mitigate damage and loss of life in the most vulnerable communities, especially in regions like the Caribbean. Small islands always face heightened vulnerability to extreme climate events,” Roberto Benes, Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean said.
UNICEF responds to hurricane threat
UNICEF, in coordination with national authorities and partners in each country, is supporting preparedness efforts. The organisation is prepositioning supplies including hygiene materials, water purifiers and containers, and medical supplies.
It is also sharing warnings with communities and providing cash to households at risk in the south of Haiti to mitigate the impact of the hurricane.
Benes added: “UNICEF helps strengthen national capacities to anticipate and respond to climate-related emergencies and to deliver essential services for children. This is fundamental to protecting those who need it most.”
The hurricane is moving slowly across the Caribbean Sea, bringing winds, rains, and flash flooding.
Climate disasters affect millions annually
Over the past decade, approximately 11 million people, including nearly 4 million children, were directly affected each year by natural and human-made hazards in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Events put the lives of children and families at risk across the region. Services in coastal areas face disruption as the storm continues its path through the Caribbean.
