Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica: A Nation in Ruin

Thu Oct 30 2025 09:25:21 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Jamaica faces destruction as Hurricane Melissa batters the island with catastrophic winds and flooding, leading to widespread power outages and significant damage.

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica, causing severe destruction across the island. With winds reaching 298 km/h (185 mph), approximately 75% of the country is without power, and many areas are underwater. Authorities warn of potentially devastating impacts, while rescue operations face challenges due to the flooding.

Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica: A Nation in Ruin

The normal soundtrack that accompanies Jamaican life is silent this morning as many have woken to no electricity. About three-quarters of the island is without power and many parts of its western side are under water, with homes destroyed by strong winds after Hurricane Melissa tore across the island with catastrophic force.

As wind and rain lashed through the night, one local official said the destruction resembled the scene of an apocalypse movie. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the island a disaster area late Tuesday, warning of devastating impacts and significant damage to hospitals, homes, and businesses.

No deaths have yet been confirmed, but officials are concerned for the safety of residents in affected areas. Montego Bay's mayor Richard Vernon stated that his first task at daybreak would be to check if everybody is alive. Reporting from the ground describes Montigo Bay split in two due to floods, with residents cut off from each other.

Hurricane Melissa is the strongest storm to strike Jamaica in modern history. At its peak, it sustained winds of 298 km/h (185 mph), stronger than Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm's intensity has been linked to unusually warm Caribbean waters, likely a manifestation of climate change.

Local government minister Desmond Mckenzie reported that the southwestern parish of St Elizabeth was inundated, with families trapped in their homes. Rescue operations are complicated by the dangerous conditions after the hurricane's impact.

No fatalities have been confirmed, but Prime Minister Holness expressed fears of possible loss of life. As Jamaica begins recovery efforts, calls for assistance are growing, with experts indicating that the damage could hamper the nation's economy significantly.