US, UK rally round Caribbean as hurricane kills 31

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The US State Department says it has activated United States-based urban search and rescue teams to “bolster response efforts” as Hurricane Melissa rips through Caribbean countries.

The aftermath of the disaster has reportedly killed around 31 people across the countries.

“In response to the catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in many Caribbean countries, @StateDept is deploying a regional Disaster Assistance Response Team and activated US-based Urban Search and Rescue teams to bolster response efforts,” the department said in a Wednesday statement seen by The PUNCH on X posted via @StateDept.

“These teams are working with affected countries and local communities to determine what assistance is needed and with interagency, international, and U.S. military partners to coordinate emergency response efforts,” it added. Punch