Hurricane Melissa Devastates Caribbean Islands, Moves Northward
Rescue operations are currently underway in the Caribbean following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The storm, labeled one of the strongest Atlantic hurricanes in over 150 years, brought massive destruction to Jamaica, Cuba, and the Bahamas.
Hurricane Melissa’s Impact on Caribbean Islands
Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a Category 5 hurricane in Jamaica, with maximum sustained winds reaching 185 mph (295 kph). The effects have been catastrophic, leading to widespread damage, flooding, and power outages. Reports indicate at least 49 fatalities across the region, with the final death toll likely to increase over the coming days.
Conditions in Jamaica
Jamaica suffered severe impacts, particularly in the town of Black River. Here, storm surges exceeded 15 feet, leaving much of the infrastructure devastated. The local population is in a desperate situation, with shortages of food and potable water. Looting has been reported as residents struggle to meet their basic needs.
- At least 4 deaths confirmed in St. Elizabeth Parish.
- 8 additional deaths reported from Westmoreland, Hanover, and St. James.
- Approximately 25,000 tourists remain in Jamaica.
- More than 72% of the island is without power.
- 13,000 residents are still in emergency shelters.
Emergency officials began clearing blocked roads to reach isolated communities in need of assistance. The Jamaican Defense Forces have also been deployed to help the overwhelmed areas.
Effects on Cuba
Hurricane Melissa struck Cuba as a Category 3 storm, causing extensive damage mainly in the eastern regions. President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported flooding, mudslides, and significant property destruction.
- Over 735,000 people evacuated across the country.
- More than 140,000 people isolated due to rising rivers.
- 241 communities in the Santiago province cut off from access.
The Cuban government has initiated communication with the United States regarding potential humanitarian aid. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the U.S. is prepared to provide immediate assistance to Guatemala.
Haitian Casualties
Hurricane Melissa also resulted in a death toll in Haiti, with at least 30 lives claimed, primarily due to flooding, despite the storm not making direct landfall there. Accounts from affected areas highlight the tragic losses experienced by families.
In the face of such disasters, international assistance is mobilizing. The United Kingdom announced £2.5 million ($3.3 million) in humanitarian aid for the region as they also facilitate the evacuation of British nationals from Jamaica.
As recovery efforts continue, communities across the Caribbean are beginning to address the massive challenges ahead. The full extent of Hurricane Melissa’s destruction is still being assessed as relief teams work tirelessly to provide aid.
