Jamaican authorities are bracing for an increase in the death toll in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which landed in the island on Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction, particularly in the western end of the country.
The official count so far is that 19 people been killed.
But speaking Friday at a press briefing at Jamaica House, Information Minister Dr. Dana Morris Dixon disclosed that the figure will rise.
"Last night, I would have reported that there were 19 confirmed deaths, 19 Jamaicans who lost their lives. And this morning I have confirmed that number has not changed. But, we have reports that are quite credible of the potential of four bodies being in Westmoreland that need to be retrieved and one in St. Elizabeth. We do not count the numbers until the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force) has been able to go to the site and retrieve the body and confirm it. So we're still at 19 confirmed, but we do expect that that number will change today," she said.
Member of Parliament for St. James West Central Marlene Malahoo Forte echoed similar sentiments, noting that there are still uncollected bodies in St. James and Westmoreland.
Speaking on Radio Jamaica's Hotline on Friday, the MP said the situation in these parishes is dire.
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