Jamaica, October 29, 2025
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica and is marked as one of the strongest hurricanes to ever impact the island, causing catastrophic winds and torrential rainfall. The storm has led to power outages, extensive infrastructure damage, and at least three reported fatalities as recovery efforts begin and international aid mobilizes. Neighboring regions are also facing impacts, with warnings for flash flooding and landslides issued.
Kingston, Jamaica – Hurricane Melissa Strikes as Category 5 Storm
Kingston, Jamaica – Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 28, 2025, as a Category 5 storm, marking the strongest hurricane to ever impact the island. The storm brought catastrophic winds, torrential rainfall, and widespread flooding, leading to significant infrastructure damage and power outages.
Impact on Jamaica
The hurricane’s center was located near latitude 18.5 North, longitude 77.7 West, with maximum sustained winds near 145 mph (230 km/h). Melissa’s slow movement at 8 mph (13 km/h) exacerbated the situation, causing prolonged exposure to severe conditions. The storm’s path traversed the island from St. Elizabeth to St. Ann, generating storm surges up to 13 feet (4 meters) and trapping families due to impassable roads. At least three fatalities have been reported in Jamaica, with significant casualties feared. The storm also caused extensive damage to critical infrastructure, including hospitals, homes, and roads, particularly in the parish of St. Elizabeth, which was described as being “underwater.”
Regional Impact
Beyond Jamaica, Hurricane Melissa has affected neighboring regions. In Haiti and the Dominican Republic, the storm has resulted in at least four deaths and widespread damage. The U.S. National Hurricane Center issued warnings for potential flash flooding and landslides in Cuba, Hispaniola, the southeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos.
International Aid and Relief Efforts
In response to the disaster, international aid has been mobilized. The Miami Heat donated $1 million, and China sent emergency supplies to Cuba. Jamaica has opened over 130 shelters, though initial turnout was low. Over 281,000 people have been evacuated in eastern Cuba, where Melissa is expected to make landfall next. The storm ties with 1935 and 2019 hurricanes as the strongest Atlantic storm upon landfall, with experts forecasting catastrophic damage, landslides, and severe flooding in Cuba. Weather officials stress that the danger is ongoing, and recovery efforts are already underway, with support pledged from the U.S., U.K., and humanitarian groups.
Background on Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa formed from a tropical wave that originated from West Africa and moved across the central Atlantic to the Windward Islands. It developed into Tropical Storm Melissa on October 21, 2025, and rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane by October 27. The storm’s rapid intensification has been linked to unusually warm ocean temperatures, a phenomenon associated with climate change.
Ongoing Threats and Warnings
Authorities continue to warn of the ongoing dangers posed by Hurricane Melissa. The U.S. National Hurricane Center has issued warnings for potential flash flooding and landslides in Cuba, Hispaniola, the southeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos. Residents in these areas are advised to stay informed and follow guidance from local authorities.
Conclusion
Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica and the surrounding regions has been devastating. As recovery efforts continue, the international community remains engaged in providing aid and support to those affected by this historic storm.
FAQ
What was the strength of Hurricane Melissa when it made landfall in Jamaica?
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on October 28, 2025, as a Category 5 storm, marking the strongest hurricane to ever impact the island.
How many fatalities have been reported in Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa?
At least three fatalities have been reported in Jamaica, with significant casualties feared.
What international aid has been provided in response to Hurricane Melissa?
International aid has been mobilized, including a $1 million donation from the Miami Heat and emergency supplies sent to Cuba. Jamaica has opened over 130 shelters, though initial turnout was low.
What are the ongoing threats posed by Hurricane Melissa?
Authorities continue to warn of the ongoing dangers posed by Hurricane Melissa, including potential flash flooding and landslides in Cuba, Hispaniola, the southeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos. Residents in these areas are advised to stay informed and follow guidance from local authorities.
Key Features of Hurricane Melissa’s Impact
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Strength at Landfall | Category 5 storm, the strongest to ever impact Jamaica. |
| Fatalities in Jamaica | At least three fatalities reported, with significant casualties feared. |
| International Aid | Miami Heat donated $1 million; emergency supplies sent to Cuba; over 130 shelters opened in Jamaica. |
| Ongoing Threats | Warnings for flash flooding and landslides in Cuba, Hispaniola, the southeastern Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos. |
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