Jamaica, Bahamas Issue All Clear After Hurricane Melissa, Begin Recovery

Hurricane Melissa has passed, prompting official "all clear" signals in both The Bahamas and Jamaica, allowing restoration and recovery efforts to begin. The Bahamas reported minimal damage and a swift return to normal operations, with airports reopening and international flights resuming, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister I. Chester Cooper. In Jamaica, where Melissa struck as a Category 5 hurricane causing extensive damage and power outages for over half a million people, the government declared a national disaster, and utility companies were authorized to start restoring essential services. Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized rebuilding efforts and caution among citizens due to ongoing hazards like downed power lines and flooding. Both countries are working to reassure residents and visitors, with Jamaica encouraging reopening of supermarkets and other essential services in less affected areas. Recovery operations continue as the storm moves away, with ongoing support to affected communities and regional solidarity extended to other impacted Caribbean nations.