Jamaica is grappling with unprecedented devastation in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm to hit the island in modern history. With sustained winds reaching 298 km/h (185 mph), the Category 5 hurricane left a trail of destruction, submerging vast areas, destroying homes, and crippling infrastructure. Approximately three-quarters of the island is without power, and western regions are inundated with floodwaters. Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared Jamaica a ‘disaster area,’ emphasizing the widespread damage to hospitals, schools, and businesses. Although no fatalities have been confirmed, officials fear significant loss of life. Rescue operations are underway, but communication breakdowns and hazardous conditions are hampering efforts. The storm’s rapid intensification, fueled by abnormally warm Caribbean waters, underscores the growing impact of climate change. As Jamaica begins to assess the full extent of the damage, the nation faces a long and arduous recovery process.
Jamaicans wake to devastation as hurricane causes floods, power cuts and splits city in two
