Hurricane Melissa remains a powerful Category 3 storm as it moves north toward eastern Cuba, after leaving widespread destruction across parts of the Caribbean. With intense winds, heavy rainfall, and a broad impact zone, it is one of the strongest storms to affect the region in recent years.
Jamaica suffered the most severe damage. Violent winds ripped roofs from homes, toppled trees, and destroyed fragile buildings, while torrential rain flooded roads and neighborhoods. Emergency crews struggled to reach isolated areas as conditions rapidly deteriorated.
At least seven deaths have been confirmed across the region—three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic—though officials warn the toll may rise. Damage assessments remain difficult due to flooding and blocked access routes.
Jamaica’s government declared a national disaster as more than 500,000 residents lost electricity. Hospitals, water systems, and critical services are now relying on generators, raising concerns about prolonged outages and public health risks.
Cuba is bracing for impact. Authorities have evacuated more than 735,000 people from coastal and flood-prone areas in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Preparations are underway nationwide to reduce loss of life.
Forecasts warn of winds reaching 120 mph, rainfall up to 25 inches, and storm surges as high as 12 feet. Officials fear serious damage to homes, agriculture, and infrastructure, especially in low-lying regions.
Haiti and the Dominican Republic have already been hit by severe flooding and landslides from the storm’s outer bands. Weak infrastructure and urban flooding are complicating emergency response and recovery efforts.
Authorities urge residents to follow evacuation orders and rely on official updates. Even after the storm passes, lingering hazards such as flooding, contaminated water, and downed power lines are expected to pose ongoing risks.
