At Least 28 Dead as Hurricane Melissa Leaves Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba Reeling
Overview of Damage Across the Northern Caribbean
The northern Caribbean is facing significant devastation following the impact of Hurricane Melissa, which has resulted in at least 28 fatalities, predominantly in Haiti. As of Thursday, the hurricane, which had just moved away from the Bahamas, was heading toward Bermuda, where weather conditions were anticipated to deteriorate rapidly, according to the National Hurricane Center.
U.S. Government Response
In response to the catastrophic storm, President Trump has instructed the State Department to mobilize support for communities affected in Jamaica, the Bahamas, Cuba, Haiti, and Turks and Caicos. The State Department has announced collaboration with UN agencies, NGOs, and local governments to provide essential supplies, including food, water, medical kits, and temporary shelter.
Recovery Efforts in Jamaica
On the ground in Jamaica, the scene is start of devastation. Government workers and residents have begun clearing roads to reach isolated communities severely affected by the storm, which is recognized as start of the most powerful Atlantic storms on record. Emergency relief flights resumed at Jamaica’s main international airport late Wednesday, allowing aid to be distributed to those in need.
Jamaican Transportation Minister Daryl Vaz described the situation as “enormous devastation,” noting many residents have yet to contact their loved starts. Isolated areas in the western region of Jamaica have seen particularly severe impact. Authorities confirmed at least four deaths in southwest Jamaica, where Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated that up to 90% of roofs in the coastal community of Black River were destroyed.
Over 25,000 individuals currently remain in emergency shelters, and approximately 77% of the island is without power. Military crews are working to reach cut-off areas, facing challenges in accessing blocked roads due to the extensive damage.
Haiti’s Severe Impact
Hurricane Melissa caused catastrophic flooding in Haiti, leading to the reported deaths of at least 23 individuals, with 13 others missing. Most of these casualties were reported from the southern region. The Civil Protection Agency indicated that at least 20 fatalities occurred in Petit-Goâve, which included 10 children.
Additionally, more than 11,600 people are sheltered due to the storm, and officials are attempting to deliver emergency food assistance to 152 individuals with disabilities in need of immediate help.
Cuba Initiates Cleanup Efforts
In Cuba, cleanup operations are underway as citizens work to clear blocked roads and highways, often with military assistance. After the evacuation of over 735,000 individuals from eastern Cuba, residents are now slowly returning to their homes.
Yaima Almenares, a local teacher, shared that community members are cleaning the streets and removing debris. Officials from several affected provinces reported damages to roofs, telecommunications, and agricultural losses. While many communities remain without power and communication due to downed infrastructure, the rainfall from the hurricane has provided some relief from severe drought conditions in the region.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the State Department would issue a declaration for humanitarian assistance in Cuba, reinforcing U.S. support for recovery efforts.
The Path of Hurricane Melissa
As of Thursday, Hurricane Melissa was classified as a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of approximately 105 mph and was moving northeast. The storm is expected to pass northwest of Bermuda and weaken into a post-tropical low by Friday night. Residents in Bermuda have been advised to prepare for the impending weather changes.
Overall, Hurricane Melissa’s impact continues to be felt across multiple nations as communities begin the challenging process of recovery and rebuilding.