Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms in Atlantic history, has devastated Jamaica as a Category 5 hurricane and made landfall in Cuba with 120 mph winds, prompting the Jamaican Prime Minister to declare a disaster area amid catastrophic damage and loss of life.
The hurricane made its first landfall in Jamaica on October 28, 2025, with sustained winds reaching 175 mph, marking it as the strongest storm to hit the island in modern history. Jamaican authorities reported widespread destruction to homes, hospitals, and infrastructure, with power outages and communications failures isolating many communities. Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized the severity of the situation, warning residents of ‘devastating impacts’ and urging them to seek shelter. Initial reports indicated at least three deaths and numerous injuries during preparation efforts, highlighting the dangers even before the storm’s full force arrived.
As Melissa moved northeast, it weakened slightly but remained a major threat, striking eastern Cuba early on October 29 as a Category 3 hurricane with winds near 120 mph. The storm made landfall near the city of Chivirico in Santiago de Cuba province, where authorities had evacuated approximately 750,000 people to safer areas. Cuban officials braced for extensive flooding and storm surges, with forecasts predicting up to 25 inches of rain in some regions. The slow movement of the hurricane exacerbated risks, prolonging exposure to high winds and heavy precipitation.
In Jamaica, the aftermath revealed profound challenges, with the mayor of Montego Bay describing how one side of the city had been cut off due to flooding and debris. Rescue efforts were hampered by downed power lines and blocked roads, while emergency shelters overflowed with displaced residents. The Jamaican government mobilized relief operations, with Holness vowing to rebuild affected areas ‘even better than before’ in a message of hope amid the crisis. International aid began to organize, including potential support from the United States, as the scale of the disaster became clearer.
The hurricane’s impact extended beyond immediate physical damage, disrupting daily life and economies in both nations. In Jamaica, airports remained closed, and tourists were stranded in hotels, while in Cuba, critical infrastructure faced similar threats. Meteorologists noted that Melissa’s intensity and slow pace were linked to broader climate patterns, raising concerns about future storms in a warming world. The World Meteorological Organization described it as the ‘storm of the century’ for Jamaica, underscoring its historical significance.
Looking ahead, Hurricane Melissa is projected to continue toward the Bahamas and Bermuda, though expected to weaken further. Recovery efforts in Jamaica and Cuba will focus on restoring essential services, assessing full damage, and providing humanitarian assistance. The event has prompted global solidarity, with countries like the UK offering consular support and monitoring the situation closely. As communities begin the long process of rebuilding, the hurricane serves as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events.
Cross-referencing reports from BBC News and ABC News confirms the unified narrative of a catastrophic natural disaster unfolding across the Caribbean. Both outlets highlighted the unprecedented strength of Melissa, the swift governmental responses, and the urgent need for international cooperation in relief efforts. The synthesis of these sources ensures a comprehensive account, emphasizing the human toll and resilience in the face of adversity.