Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 29, 2025, as a Category 5 storm, bringing winds of over 185 mph and causing unprecedented destruction across the island. The hurricane, which hovered in the Caribbean Sea for six days, unleashed its full force on Jamaica, leaving behind a trail of devastation that has prompted Prime Minister Andrew Holness to declare the country a “disaster area.” Local authorities have reported significant flooding, widespread power outages, and extensive damage to infrastructure.
The storm was historic, marking only the seventh recorded Category 5 hurricane to hit the Atlantic region since record-keeping began. According to reports from NPR, the storm’s impact was felt across Haiti and Cuba as well, but Jamaica bore the brunt of its ferocity. The storm claimed at least 14 lives in Jamaica, and officials expect that number to rise as rescue operations continue.
In a press conference, Dana Morris Dixon, Jamaica’s Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, described the situation as dire. “The entire Jamaica is really broken because of what has happened,” she stated, emphasizing the severity of the destruction. Reports indicate that over 170 communities across six parishes were affected, with many areas experiencing moderate to severe damage.
As of October 30, more than 13,000 people remained in emergency shelters, while approximately 72% of the island was without electricity. Efforts for relief have commenced, with local authorities and volunteers working tirelessly to support affected residents. Desmond McKenzie, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, highlighted the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy in the wake of the storm.
Drone footage captured the extent of the devastation in areas such as Lacovia, where homes were reduced to rubble, roads were submerged, and communities were left without essential services. Residents have struggled to salvage what they can from their homes, as seen in the St. Elizabeth parish, where landslides have blocked main roads. “I never see anything like this before in all my years living here,” lamented resident Jennifer Small.
In the face of such adversity, the Jamaican people are displaying remarkable resilience. Local organizations, including World Central Kitchen, have mobilized to provide food and water to those in need. Chef José Andrés and his team have been actively distributing meals to affected communities, ensuring that comfort and sustenance are available during this challenging time.
International support has also begun to arrive, with emergency relief supplies being sent to assist those hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa. The Government of Jamaica has launched an official platform for coordinating relief efforts and soliciting donations to aid recovery. Prime Minister Holness urged citizens and international partners to contribute as the nation begins to rebuild.
As Jamaica grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the spirit of its people remains unbroken. The island, known for its vibrant culture and history, now faces a long road to recovery. Yet, with a community that has weathered numerous storms throughout its history, there is hope that Jamaica will rise once again.
