Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica, Hits Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa intensified to Category 5 and caused catastrophic damage across the northern Caribbean as it moved through, producing widespread destruction and casualties in Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba and the Bahamas. Jamaican officials reported massive damage — up to 90% of roofs destroyed in some communities — roughly 25,000 people sheltered and about 77% of the island without power, with crews working to clear roads and reach isolated areas. Haiti experienced severe flooding, extensive home damage, thousands displaced and preliminary reports of roughly 20–25+ deaths in hardest-hit areas. Emergency relief flights and aid began arriving in Jamaica, several dozen U.S. disaster-relief workers including urban search-and-rescue teams were being deployed, and private groups and diaspora communities mobilized funds and donations. Authorities warned recovery will be lengthy as crews restore power, clear debris and deliver basic supplies amid continuing uncertainty over the final death toll and long-term displacement.