Hurricane Melissa Causes Widespread Devastation Across the Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms to hit the Caribbean, has caused significant devastation across the region. In Jamaica, at least 19 people have died, according to Information Minister Dana Morris Dixon. The hurricane made landfall on Tuesday as a Category 5 storm, bringing winds up to 185 mph (295 km/h).

In Haiti, officials report at least 25 fatalities, including many children, primarily due to a river overflowing near the town of Petit-Goave.

Cuba also faced severe impacts, with over 3 million people exposed to life-threatening conditions. Approximately 735,000 individuals were safely evacuated, according to the UN's resident coordinator for Cuba, Francisco Pichon.

The storm has left extensive damage in its wake, with many communities marooned and areas flattened. Electricity remains out for most of Jamaica, and thousands are in desperate need of aid.

International aid is being mobilized. The World Food Programme is coordinating logistics, cash, and emergency supplies across the affected countries. The US State Department is deploying a disaster response team to assist with search and rescue operations and provide essential supplies. The UK government has announced an additional £5 million ($6 million) in humanitarian aid, including shelter kits and solar-powered lanterns.

As the region begins recovery efforts, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and authorities continue to work on restoring essential services and providing aid to those affected.