Hurricane Melissa Leaves Trail of Destruction Across Caribbean, Heads Toward Bermuda
At least 27 people are confirmed dead across Jamaica and Haiti following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful Atlantic storms on record, as the storm continues its path toward Bermuda.
Devastation is widespread across Jamaica, where authorities have recovered four bodies in the southwest and estimate up to 90% of roofs in the coastal community of Black River were destroyed. “Black River is what you would describe as ground zero,” said Prime Minister Andrew Holness, adding that residents are “still coming to grips with the destruction.” More than 25,000 people remain in shelters, and 77% of the island is without power. Sheryl Smith, a Jamaican resident who lost her home’s roof, stated, “I am now homeless, but I have to be hopeful because I have life.” The scale of the damage highlights the increasing vulnerability of Caribbean nations to extreme weather events linked to climate change.
In Haiti, at least 23 people were killed, including 10 children in Petit-Goâve, with numerous others missing. The country’s Civil Protection Agency reported significant damage to homes, with over 160 damaged and 80 destroyed. Officials are prioritizing emergency food assistance for 152 disabled individuals in the southern region. Cuba has begun cleanup efforts, with over 735,000 people evacuated before the storm made landfall, and residents are now returning to assess damage to infrastructure and agricultural lands. You can find more information about hurricane preparedness at the Ready.gov website.
As of early today, a hurricane warning is in effect for Bermuda, with the U.S. National Hurricane Center reporting that Melissa is a Category 2 storm with sustained winds near 105 mph. The storm is expected to pass northwest of Bermuda later today and tonight, bringing tropical storm conditions and potential hurricane-force winds. The NHC anticipates slight strengthening before weakening begins on Friday.
Officials are urging residents in the Bahamas and Bermuda to prepare for continued heavy rains and gusty winds as Melissa continues its northward trajectory.
