The Ripple Effects of Power Loss: St. Elizabeth's Struggle Post-Hurricane Beryl

The aftermath of Hurricane Beryl has left a trail of destruction across St. Elizabeth, with the loss of power since July 3rd being one of the most crippling blows. As I stood by the river at Alligator Pond, the landscape told a vivid story of nature’s fury. The river itself had shifted, altering its course to enter the sea at a new place. Trees, once steadfast, now lay toppled, their massive trunks taking down power lines and plunging the area into darkness with no end in sight.

The Water Crisis

The impact of the power outage on water supplies has been particularly devastating. In farming communities, where water is the lifeblood of livelihoods, the lack of power has halted the operation of pumps and irrigation systems. Crops are withering under the relentless sun, and the once fertile fields of St. Elizabeth now lie parched and unproductive.

The inability to store food due to the lack of refrigeration has compounded the crisis. Fresh produce, milk, and other perishables are spoiling, leaving families with limited options. Residents are being forced to make do with what little they have, often resorting to less nutritious and non-perishable food items. The scarcity of ice, which I discussed with a resident of Christianna, has exacerbated the situation, making it difficult to keep even the most basic items cool and safe to consume.

Voices from the Community

One story that stands out is that of a renter from the Pedro Pass area. The storm flattened his home, leaving him with no choice but to start over. He has been forced to relocate to another side of the island with no shelter and no immediate prospects. His plight highlights the broader issue of displacement and the long road to recovery that many residents now face.

Bull Sav, another hard-hit area, is grappling with similar challenges. The lack of electricity has stalled recovery efforts, and the community struggles to adapt to the new reality.

At the River

Standing by the river at Alligator Pond, I was struck by the contrasting beauty and devastation. The scene from Sea Riv Hotel was breathtaking, even amidst the wreckage left by the storm. My father-in-law shared a remarkable story from the day before—swimmers were visited by a crocodile, a rare and surreal reminder of the river's changed dynamics. Though the river has shifted, altering its course and leaving behind debris, it still holds a serene beauty that captivates the eye.

The fallen trees create a maze of obstacles, and the shifted riverbed serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature. Yet, amidst this destruction, the resilience of the St. Elizabeth community shines through. People are determined to rebuild and restore what has been lost. Despite the challenges, there is a palpable sense of hope and a collective drive to move forward, reflecting the indomitable spirit of our people.

Progress and Challenges

Amidst the devastation, power is slowly but steadily being restored to town centers. This incremental restoration is a beacon of hope, signaling the beginning of recovery. However, rural areas where many of our farmers, like myself, reside still face significant delays. The process is painstakingly slow, and the need for support remains urgent.

Call to Action

The need for support is urgent. We aim to raise USD 25 million to aid recovery efforts. This funding will restore power, ensure access to clean water, support displaced families, and rebuild our farming communities. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by Hurricane Beryl.

Together, we can help St. Elizabeth recover and build resilience against future natural disasters. Let us stand with our community and provide the support they need to emerge stronger from this crisis.

With heartfelt gratitude and determination,

Angel Seaga

Executive Director

Jamaica Diaspora Foundation