Caribbean Islands Reel from Hurricane Melissa's Devastating Impact

On November 1, 2025, the Caribbean region is reeling from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful Atlantic storms in over 150 years. The powerful hurricane has caused widespread destruction as it tore through the region, leaving a trail of damage in its wake.

Jamaica was hit the hardest, with Melissa making landfall as a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph. The coastal town of Black River has been described as experiencing "complete and utter destruction," with residents desperately searching for water, food, and news about their loved ones. The Jamaican Defense Forces have deployed to the area, but the heat and humidity are complicating recovery efforts, and looting has been reported as a matter of survival.

Neighboring Cuba also sustained "extensive damage," including flooding, mudslides, property destruction, and infrastructure damage, particularly in the eastern regions. Hundreds of rural communities were left isolated as rivers rose, and over 735,000 people were evacuated prior to the storm's arrival.

The death toll from Hurricane Melissa has already reached at least 50, with the full extent of the catastrophe still being determined. Rescue and relief efforts are underway across the affected areas, as the storm continues to move northward. The regional Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) has been activated and deployed to the region, providing much-needed aid and support.