At least 32 people have died across the Caribbean after Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful storms to hit the region in decades, swept through Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic before moving toward Cuba and the Bahamas.
Jamaican officials confirmed eight deaths as the Category 5 hurricane struck the island on Tuesday with sustained winds near 185 mph, causing widespread flooding, power outages, and damage to homes and infrastructure. The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) said thousands of residents sought shelter as rivers overflowed and landslides cut off several communities.
In Haiti, authorities reported 23 deaths, many in Petit-Goâve, where heavy rainfall and flash flooding destroyed homes and swept away vehicles. One death was confirmed in the Dominican Republic.
Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness declared a national disaster and said emergency services were working to restore power and clear major roads. “The Government is mobilising all available resources to assist affected communities,” Mr. Holness said in a televised statement.
The storm left nearly 77 percent of Jamaica’s power customers without electricity, according to utility officials. Damage was concentrated in St. Elizabeth Parish and surrounding southern areas.
In Cuba, more than 700,000 people were evacuated from eastern provinces ahead of Melissa’s arrival, which caused extensive flooding and damage to coastal towns.
International assistance has begun to reach the region. The United Kingdom announced a £2.5 million (US$3.3 million) aid package for Jamaica, including water purification systems and emergency shelter kits. Relief organisations across the Caribbean are coordinating to support recovery efforts.
Meteorologists said the hurricane, now weakening as it moves north, continues to pose threats of flash flooding and storm surges across the northwestern Caribbean. Officials urged residents to remain indoors and avoid flooded areas until authorities declare them safe.
