Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm at its peak, caused fatalities and widespread damage across the Caribbean, affecting Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, the Bahamas, and potentially Bermuda. Initial reports indicate at least 25 confirmed deaths, extensive destruction of infrastructure, and widespread power outages, with recovery efforts expected to take months.
Impact in Jamaica
Jamaica was directly hit by Hurricane Melissa when it was a Category 5 storm.
- Fatalities: Five individuals have been confirmed deceased.
- Infrastructure Damage: Prime Minister Andrew Holness reported "total devastation," with 80-90% of roofs destroyed. Hospitals, libraries, police stations, and port houses were among the damaged urban infrastructure.
- Disruptions: Approximately three-quarters of the country experienced power outages. Richard Vernon, mayor of Montego Bay, stated that half of the city was cut off by floods.
- Specific Incidents: Three men and one woman were discovered deceased after being washed up by floodwaters. A resident in St Elizabeth reported the roof of their four-bedroom home was removed. A concrete house in the Crane Road area, owned by a relative of a Kingston businessman, was reported to be completely destroyed.
- Extent of Damage: Central Jamaica, including Mandeville, sustained significant damage, with debris and foliage scattered across roads. Cleanup operations are projected to take several months.
Impact in Haiti
- Fatalities: At least 20 deaths were confirmed in Haiti due to flooding as Melissa passed through.
Hurricane Progression and Further Impacts
Hurricane Melissa, initially a Category 5 storm, was one of the most powerful hurricanes measured in the region.
- Storm Progression: After impacting Jamaica, Melissa weakened to a Category 2 storm as it moved through Haiti. It then moved north to Cuba as a Category 3 storm, bringing 115 mph winds and heavy rain to the island's southeast.
- Current Status and Forecast: On Wednesday night, the storm was located 105 miles (170 km) from the central Bahamas, moving northeast with wind speeds of 100 mph (155 km/h). A dangerous storm surge was anticipated in the Bahamas before the hurricane proceeded toward Bermuda. A tropical storm warning was issued for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The forward speed of the hurricane was expected to increase in the coming days.
Official Statements
- King Charles: Expressed concern and sadness regarding the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica and across the Caribbean.
- Cuba President Miguel Díaz-Canel: Advised residents to maintain vigilance and noted the country's preparedness efforts for potential worst-case scenarios.