Hurricane Melissa Leaves Devastation in Caribbean, Death Toll Rising

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Hurricane Melissa struck the Caribbean on October 29, 2025, causing widespread devastation and claiming at least 30 lives as it swept through the region. Known for being one of the strongest hurricanes in over 150 years, Melissa reached peak winds of 185 mph, making landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm.

As reports come in, officials are still assessing the full extent of the damage and casualties. The storm knocked out power for much of Jamaica, with around 77% of the country lacking electricity, according to a spokesperson.

“For Jamaica, it will be the storm of the century for sure,” said Anne-Claire Fontan, a tropical cyclone specialist with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). In a grim statement, Richard Solomon, mayor of Black River, Jamaica, described the situation as “devastating,” adding, “catastrophic is a mild term based on what we are observing.”

Overnight, the hurricane transitioned into eastern Cuba, maintaining strength as a Category 3 storm. In Santiago de Cuba, residents faced downed trees and flooding. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel reported “significant damage,” urging citizens to remain alert and vigilant.

As forecasters continued to monitor Melissa, the storm has moved toward the Bahamas, where evacuation orders were issued for six islands. An estimated 1,485 residents had evacuated before flights were suspended.

In Haiti, at least 25 fatalities were reported due to a flooded river overflowing its banks, highlighting Melissa’s catastrophic impact across the region. Authorities in Jamaica reported four additional deaths in the wake of the storm.

International aid is pouring in as countries respond to the disaster. The United Kingdom announced £2.5 million in emergency funding, while U.S. President Donald Trump pledged support for recovery efforts in Jamaica.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared a disaster area and skills minister Dana Morris Dixon confirmed that 25,000 tourists remained in Jamaica as the nation begins its recovery.

With ongoing assessments, the full impact of Hurricane Melissa is still unfolding, as officials work to restore power and provide relief.