Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on Tuesday, resulting in widespread power outages affecting approximately three-quarters of the island, significant flooding, and damage to homes and infrastructure. The Category 5 hurricane, with peak sustained winds of 298 km/h (185 mph), led to submerged areas, particularly on the western side of the island and in central parishes. Communications have been disrupted, and Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared the island a "disaster area" late Tuesday, citing "significant damage" to hospitals, homes, and businesses. While no deaths have been confirmed, officials express concern about potential fatalities.
Impact Assessment
Power and Communications
Approximately three-quarters of Jamaica is without electricity following Hurricane Melissa. Communication networks have been impacted across the island due to downed power lines and other damage. Journalists and residents reported difficulty connecting with others, highlighting the isolation experienced in many areas.
Flooding and Infrastructure
The hurricane caused extensive flooding, with some areas seeing floodwaters rise to the roofs of two-storey homes. Montego Bay, a major tourism hub, was described by Mayor Richard Vernon as being "split in two" by floodwaters, rendering some roads impassable and cutting off parts of the city. In the southwestern parish of St Elizabeth, described as "under water" by local government minister Desmond Mckenzie, at least three families were reported trapped in their homes in Black River, with rescue teams facing dangerous conditions. Homes across the island sustained damage, including roofs being torn off.
Human Impact and Rescue Efforts
Prime Minister Andrew Holness expressed fears of "some loss of life," although no fatalities have been confirmed. Montego Bay's Mayor Richard Vernon stated his immediate priority was to ensure residents' safety. Rescue teams in St Elizabeth encountered difficulties reaching trapped individuals due to hazardous conditions. A 73-year-old vegetable farmer in Carlisle, St Elizabeth, reported her home's zinc roof was ripped off while she was sheltering with family. Health officials issued a crocodile warning, noting that floodwaters could potentially displace reptiles into residential areas.
Storm Details
Hurricane Melissa's Strength
Hurricane Melissa, identified as the strongest storm to impact Jamaica in modern history, reached Category 5 strength. It recorded peak sustained winds of 298 km/h (185 mph), surpassing the intensity of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Meteorologists noted the hurricane's rapid intensification, attributing it to abnormally warm Caribbean waters, a trend linked to climate change. The storm's winds were strong enough to tear roofs from concrete homes, uproot trees, and snap power poles.
Agricultural and Economic Impact
The parish of St Elizabeth, a significant agricultural region known as Jamaica's "breadbasket," has experienced widespread crop submergence and field destruction. This is anticipated to have a financial impact on many farmers. Montego Bay, central to Jamaica's tourism industry, also sustained considerable damage. The overall economic implications for the island are expected to be substantial.
Warnings and Aftermath
Prime Minister Holness declared the island a "disaster area" on Tuesday, highlighting expected damage to hospitals, schools, homes, and businesses. An unnamed local official described the destruction as resembling "the scene of an apocalypse movie." Residents reported intense and stressful conditions during the night, characterized by relentless wind and rain.