Citizens remain marooned in 27 communities across the island.

That’s according to newly appointed Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) Commander Alvin Gayle.

Speaking at a press briefing this morning Commander Gayle said more than 120 thousand buildings in western Jamaica lost their roofs during the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

He said this directly impacts some 90-thousand families.

He said despite efforts by the Jamaica Defence Force, the National Works Agency, the Jamaica Fire Brigade and others to clear blocked roads citizens are still marooned in communities mainly in St Elizabeth, St James and Trelawny.

He said ODPEM is working to determine the full extent of the damage across the country.

He said this assessment will help the Government to understand the needs as the country prepares to transition to the recovery phase.

And Commander Gayle said as recovery takes place some 184 shelters remain open.

He assured that every citizen impacted will be reached.