Hurricane Melissa Claims 49 Lives Across the Caribbean

Hurricane Melissa has devastated parts of the northern Caribbean, resulting in at least 49 confirmed deaths, according to official reports. The storm, which intensified to a powerful Category 5 hurricane, made landfall in southwestern Jamaica on October 3, 2023, causing widespread destruction before moving northward towards Bermuda.

In Haiti, authorities reported 30 fatalities and 20 individuals still missing after heavy rains from the storm caused significant flooding. The southern town of Petit-Goave was particularly hard-hit, where a river overflowed its banks, leading to tragic losses, including 10 children. Extensive damage to roads, houses, and farmlands has been documented, with recovery efforts ongoing.

Jamaica’s information minister confirmed 19 deaths in the country, while search-and-rescue operations continue in the wake of the storm. The hurricane left hundreds of thousands without power, uprooted trees, and damaged buildings. The Jamaican military has mobilized reserve personnel to assist in relief efforts, highlighting the urgent need for support in affected areas.

Impact and Damage Across the Region

Hurricane Melissa’s impact extends beyond immediate casualties. The storm has caused estimated damages of $48 billion to $52 billion (€41.5 to 45 billion) across the western Caribbean, according to forecasters at AccuWeather. The hurricane tied for the second-strongest Atlantic hurricane on record in terms of wind speed upon making landfall.

In Cuba, approximately 735,000 people were evacuated in anticipation of the storm, and while no deaths have been reported there, damage to homes and crops was extensive. As of October 5, residents in the province of Santiago, which was severely affected, began returning to assess the damage.

Bermuda, located approximately 264 km from the storm’s center, was spared the worst as Melissa transitioned into a Category 2 storm with maximum sustained winds of 161 km/h. Authorities took precautionary measures, including closing schools and public transport, although residents remained calm.

Human Stories and Recovery Efforts

In Jamaica, the situation remains critical, with more than 130 roads blocked by debris, hindering accessibility for emergency services. Relief flights have begun arriving at the island’s airports, but many areas remain isolated.

In Montego Bay, 77-year-old Alfred Hines recounted his harrowing escape from rising floodwaters, illustrating the personal toll of the disaster. “At one stage, I see the water at my waist and [after] about 10 minutes’ time, I see it around my neck here and I make my escape,” he told reporters.

Residents are struggling to secure basic necessities, with reports of long lines at supermarkets and gas stations. British tourist Chevelle Fitzgerald shared her experience of navigating blocked roads, emphasizing the disruption caused by fallen trees and damaged infrastructure. “Montego Bay hasn’t got any petrol. Most of the petrol stations are down,” she noted.

As of Thursday morning, over 70 percent of electrical customers in Jamaica were still without power, severely affecting schools and hospitals. Energy Minister Daryl Vaz confirmed that efforts to restore power were underway, but challenges remain significant.

The scientific community has linked the increasing intensity of hurricanes to climate change, urging developed nations to provide reparations for the damages caused by such extreme weather events. Despite the UN establishing a fund for rapid financing to address climate-related disasters, contributions have not met expectations.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the US is prepared to offer “immediate humanitarian aid” to Cuba, while search-and-rescue teams from the US are also on their way to assist recovery efforts in Jamaica. As the region grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the focus is shifting to rebuilding and supporting the affected communities.