Jamaica is facing widespread devastation after Category 5 Hurricane Melissa made landfall, unleashing violent winds of up to 185 mph, torrential rains, and severe flooding across multiple parishes. The storm, described by officials as one of the strongest in the nation’s history, has left entire communities submerged, homes destroyed, and infrastructure crippled.
The Jamaican government has declared several areas disaster zones as emergency teams work around the clock to rescue stranded residents and provide relief. The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has reported massive power outages, with more than half a million people currently without electricity.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has called for calm, assuring citizens that emergency shelters are open nationwide and that regional and international partners are being mobilized for assistance.
Meteorological officials warn that although Hurricane Melissa is now moving toward Cuba, heavy rains and flooding threats remain in Jamaica. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early reports indicate significant losses to homes, businesses, and farmlands.
