As the powerful winds of Hurricane Melissa gather strength across the Caribbean, many residents of Jamaica are bracing for what forecasters have called a “monster storm.”
Among them is the Hon. D. Neletha Butterfield, MBE, JP the former PLP Minister of The Environment in Bermuda, who now resides in St. Ann’s Bay, Jamaica.
Photo courtesy of ABC News
When TNN’s Trevor Lindsay reached her by phone, she spoke calmly but with the deep concern of someone who has both lived through and led during times of national crisis.
“First, let me say, Trevor, that I’m very thankful for those who have called, prayed, and expressed concern for my well-being,” she began. “But I am concerned, especially for the Jamaicans living in the low areas. Right now, they’re getting a lot of rain, a lot of mudslides. Water is pouring into homes. Some residents don’t wish to move — and as you know, Jamaicans love to secure their contents. But this is a very serious hurricane.”
Ms. Butterfield, who guided Bermuda through Hurricane Fabian in 2003 during her tenure as Minister, says she’s been joking with friends that she’s “been through worse” — but her tone shifts quickly back to empathy for the people of her adopted home.
“They’re saying, ‘Are you all right?’ And I tell them, yes — I’m from Bermuda. We’ve had many storms. But this one… this is a Category 5. A monster storm. It’s wide, and its eye is defined. It’s also coming from the south — the first time we’ve seen that in Jamaica — and it’s moving very slow. It’s teasing us.”
From her residence in St. Ann’s Bay, located in the northern part of the island, the situation is, for now, deceptively calm.
“It’s kind of strange,” she explained. “The sun is shining, people are going about business. But we know it’s coming. I’m in a secured place — when I bought this home, I made sure it was hurricane safe. The structure allows for water to drain off properly. The water doesn’t rely on electricity, so even if the lights go, I’ll still have running water. We have a deli, pharmacy, doctor’s office, and grocery store on site, so we’re able to get essentials if needed.”
Despite her calm, Ms. Butterfield acknowledges the gravity of the situation.
“The prime minister is begging people to evacuate,” she said. “Even the police are out with microphones urging people to leave. You can see buses lined up to help with the evacuations. But there are still people refusing to go. That’s what worries me — not for myself, but for them. I’ve been through three or four hurricanes here in this house, but this one feels different.”
As the interview concluded, Ms. Butterfield shared a tender moment, blending maternal love and resilience — hallmarks of her public and private life.
“We in Bermuda are praying for you,” said Trevor.
“Amen to that,” she replied. “I know I’m safe, and I thank you for doing this interview. I’ve had so many calls, but I want everyone to know — I’m okay. I’m going to be okay. And I’m praying that Jamaica will be too. You can’t play with Mother Nature, son. Not with this one. But we pray there’s no loss of life.”
From her secure estate in St. Ann’s Bay, the Hon. D. Neletha Butterfield remains calm, wise, and steadfast — a woman who has weathered both personal and political storms, now watching from her window as nature reminds us all of its power.
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