Historic landfall and damage in Jamaica
On Tuesday, Melissa struck Jamaica’s southwest coast near New Hope with sustained winds of approximately 185 mph (298 km/h), tying it with the record-setting 1935 Labor Day storm in terms of landfall intensity.
The government declared the entire island a “disaster zone” and ordered evacuations of low-lying areas.
Power outages and flooding were widespread. In the parish of St Elizabeth, local officials reported deep inundation, damaged hospitals, and stranded families. 5
Prime Minister Andrew Holness told citizens: “Your homes may have been damaged or destroyed … but we will rebuild—and better than before.” 7
Advance into Cuba and the Bahamas
After ravaging Jamaica, Melissa made landfall in Cuba early Wednesday with sustained winds near 120 mph (195 km/h) and triggered mass evacuations. More than 735,000 people were moved from vulnerable zones in eastern Cuba. 8
The storm was then forecast to continue its path toward the Bahamas, with officials issuing evacuation orders in southern archipelagos and issuing warnings for storm surge, heavy rain and landslides. 9
Human toll and regional impacts
In Haiti, at least 25 people died after the La Digue river burst its banks near Petit-Goâve amid heavy flooding. 10
In Jamaica, at least three deaths were linked to the storm: two people killed when trees fell, and one electrocuted during storm-preparation efforts. 11
Humanitarian agencies warn that children and vulnerable communities across the region face heightened risk due to the storm’s effects. 12
Climate context and concernsl
Experts say Melissa’s rapid intensification—from tropical storm to Category 5 in just days—is consistent with patterns linked to warmer seas and climate change.
The scale of destruction and its occurrence in a less-frequently hit zone underline the increasing vulnerability of island nations in the face of extreme weather.
Recovery and outlook
Recovery is expected to be long and costly. In Jamaica, officials are reopening key relief routes and airports to assist humanitarian operations and reopen supplies.
Cuba is mobilising thousands of electric-workers to restore power and clear debris, while the Bahamas remains on alert for further impact.
Regional authorities are urging those in low-lying or flood-prone zones to heed evacuation orders and stay sheltered until official all-clear is given.
