Hurricane Melissa Devastates Caribbean, Kills Dozens

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica as a rapidly intensifying Category 5 with winds up to 185 mph, producing catastrophic damage. The storm also battered Cuba, Haiti and the Dominican Republic as it moved toward the Bahamas. Reports cite dozens killed, many injured or missing — including 23 reported dead in Haiti — widespread flooding, collapsed buildings, about 77% of Jamaica without power, and hundreds of thousands displaced or sheltering. Satellite and aerial imagery show flattened homes, flooded communities and toppled trees consistent with officials describing unprecedented devastation. Relief operations are ramping up, with nonprofits and local groups coordinating large food and medical shipments, but officials warn the situation remains fluid and urgent needs for shelter, water, food and communications are likely to grow.