'BROKEN NATION': Maria 'leaves at least 24 dead’ amid utter devastation in Dominica

Last updated: September 21, 2017 at 16:19 pm

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Sources speaking to WIC News from Dominica report that at least 24 people have died on the island following its pummelling by Hurricane Maria.

At least 15 of those who have died are from Pointe Michel, where access is currently only by foot.

However there have already been reports of more deaths outside of the two dozen that are confirmed.

Anxiety continues to mount as friends and families of those in Dominica during the hurricane's passing wait to hear from them.

Robert Tonge, the island's tourism minister, sent an update earlier today covering the whole of the island – although the picture is changing hour by hour.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is one his way to Antigua to give his first interview since Dominica was struck.

He is expected to speak at midday local time.

Communications are starting to come back up across the Nature Isle, starting with the capital Roseau.

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A fundraising effort – DominiCARElief – organised by Dominica’s high commission in London is underway. More information can be found and donations can be made at www.dominicarelief.org.

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Flow appears to be working in the city but declined to comment about the situation. Digicel, the other main telecommunications provider, has not responded to requests for comment.

Our reporter on the ground, who managed to send WhatsApp messages to WIC News last night, said he has been left homeless.

The latest official statement from the government said that Dominica is in a state of emergency and a curfew is in place from 4pm to 8am.

[caption id="attachment_5898" align="aligncenter" width="500"] The first picture of Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit since Hurricane Maria hit, visiting communities to assess damage.[/caption]

Hartley Henry, principal advisor to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, spoke to Dominica’s leader yesterday via satellite phone.

"In summary, the island has been devastated. The housing stock significantly damaged or destroyed," he said.

"All available public buildings are being used as shelters; with very limited roofing materials evident. The country needs the support and continued help and prayers of all. Will update further as new information is received."

Dominican in London: "People didn't take Tropical Storm Erika seriously but now we need the world to help #Dominica. Our country is broken."

— Ben Parker (@BenParker90) September 21, 2017

A number of journalists attempted to travel from Barbados to Dominica yesterday on a coastguard boat but they were left behind in order to accommodate more emergency supplies and medical personnel.