The Caribbean islands are on full alrert as slow moving "Matthew" is set to impact the countries of Haiti and Jamaica in the coming hours. 

The Weather Channel reports: "Six years after a devastating 7.0-magnitude earthquake killed more than 200,000 people, Haiti braces for Hurricane Matthew amid fears that the country is ill-equipped to face another deadly natural disaster. At least 55,000 residents still live in tents and makeshift shelters after the earthquake that flattened some 300,000 buildings, according to ABC News Australia. Many others live in unstable homes with flimsy roofs.

With an expected 40 inches of rain on the way, the country is looking at even more devastation exacerbated by deforestation, which increases the potential for floods and mudslides. Couple that with the state of the country's dilapidated homes and buildings and the possibility of heavy casualties from the storm seems likely, the Associated Press reports."

 

We want to thank all who are praying with us for those in the path of Hurricane Matthew -- and for our HFI staff members, Rene and Marianne Lako and our adopted village of Sous Savanne. We just received this from the Lakos: "Good morning, woke up to the sound of light rain around 5.30 AM. It continues to be light rain and very little wind so far. Predictions remain the same and because Matthew is moving North so slowly it's going to be a long slow process. It's kind of unreal and we think for many people here reality has not yet sunk in. We hope and pray for the best. Appreciating prayers and support. Love from Sous Savanne and Marechal."

We will stay in regular contact with the Lakos as long as internet and phone lines allow. Hope Force stands ready to respond as the need dictates and will take our "lead" from the them as they assess the situation in the days ahead.  (For more frequent updates, follow our Hope Force Facebook page -- link below.)