Hurricane Melissa Causes Widespread Destruction and Rising Death Toll in the Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa has caused extensive destruction across the Caribbean, resulting in at least 52 confirmed deaths and significant damage in Jamaica, Haiti, and Cuba. The storm, which reached Category 5 status with winds up to 185 mph, is among the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes on record.

In Jamaica, the hurricane made landfall near New Hope on October 29, leaving over 530,000 residents without power and displacing approximately 15,000 people into shelters. Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the damage as "heartbreaking," particularly in Black River, which he called "totally destroyed."

Haiti reported at least 25 fatalities, primarily due to flooding in the southern coastal town of Petit-Goâve. The country's Civil Protection Agency indicated that the death toll could rise as assessments continue.

In Cuba, Hurricane Melissa struck the eastern region as a Category 3 storm, causing extensive damage and leading to the evacuation of around 735,000 people. President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported significant damage and urged citizens to remain vigilant.

International aid efforts are underway. The United States has deployed Disaster Assistance Response Teams to assist affected communities, and the United Kingdom has allocated £2.5 million in emergency humanitarian funding.

As of October 30, 2025, Hurricane Melissa has weakened to a Category 1 storm with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph, moving toward the southeastern or central Bahamas. Hurricane warnings remain in effect for these areas, as well as Bermuda, where conditions could intensify before diminishing.