CHICAGO (WLS) — Jamaicans are no strangers to hurricanes, yet many say they’ve never experienced the direct hit of a storm’s eye in their lifetime. Despite the significant challenges, they remain resilient, confident in their ability to rebuild as they have in the past.

“Oh, the wind is picking up so bad!” exclaimed Danielle Strachan, a resident of Jamaica, as she described the intensifying conditions.

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Strachan finds herself at the forefront of the unfolding devastation in her beloved homeland.

“Utter disbelief, a Category 5? Category 3, maybe Category 2, but a Category 5 in this country, everybody’s in shock,” Strachan remarked, reflecting the widespread astonishment among locals.

While Strachan’s home in Montego Bay is fortunately outside the flood zones threatened by Hurricane Melissa, her aunt’s house is not as fortunate and remains in the path of potential flooding.

“I’m a bit worried about her. I haven’t heard from her, and I don’t know what’s going on down there,” Strachan said. “I’ve gotten more information from my family abroad than I’ve gotten here.”

Strachan’s family in Chicago is among many that are watching and waiting to hear if their loved ones are OK. Meanwhile, the Jamaican Consulate is preparing to provide the resources needed.

“We’re really concerned about the overall infrastructure, hospitals and power to hospitals and to schools and to other institutions,” said Honorary Consul to Jamaica Lester Barclay.

Barclay says their phones have been ringing off the hook. They are asking for things like generators, water, and clothing to be donated.

As aid is pouring in, others are trying to get out. in an interview with ABC7’s Samantha Chatman, a woman from Romeoville, who is struck abroad with her husband, says there is no leaving.

“I’m trying to let everybody know back from home that we are here and we are stranded. But I hope that we have the opportunity to get home as soon as possible,” said Andrews, who traveled to Jamaica for a wedding.

But Jamaicans told ABC7 they have weathered bad storms before, and the country’s resilience and beauty always triumphs.

“After this is done, we’ll come back stronger,” Strachan said. “Put it on your bucket list. If you haven’t been here, you cannot die and not see Jamaica.”

The Jamaican Consulate for Chicago and Midwest says monetary donations are the most helpful but will create a drop-off location for physical items.