Hurricane Melissa Leaves Trail of Devastation Across caribbean

SANTIAGO DE CUBA, Cuba (AP) – Communities across the northern Caribbean are reeling from the widespread destruction caused by hurricane Melissa, with the death toll continuing to rise. From Jamaica to Haiti, residents are beginning the arduous task of clearing debris and assessing the damage.

In Jamaica,the sound of heavy machinery filled the air as government workers and residents worked to reopen roads and reach isolated communities directly impacted by one of the most powerful Atlantic storms on record. The scene was one of shock and loss, with residents surveying roofless homes and waterlogged possessions.

“I don’t have a house now,” lamented Sylvester Guthrie of Lacovia, clutching his bicycle – his only remaining possession. “I have land…but I am going to need help.”

Emergency relief efforts are underway,with flights arriving at Jamaica’s reopened international airport carrying essential supplies like water and food. Transportation Minister Daryl Vaz described the devastation as “enormous,” while many Jamaicans face an uncertain future.

“I am now homeless, but I have to be hopeful because I have life,” said Sheryl Smith, whose home lost its roof.

Authorities have confirmed at least four fatalities in southwest Jamaica, with Prime Minister Andrew Holness reporting that up to 90% of roofs in the coastal community of Black River where destroyed. “Black River is what you would describe as ground zero,” Holness stated, acknowledging the immense challenge facing the community.Over 25,000 people remain in shelters, and 77% of the island is without power.

The impact of Melissa extended to Haiti, where catastrophic flooding has claimed at least 25 lives. The storm’s relentless rainfall overwhelmed communities already struggling with ongoing challenges, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

What specific challenges dose Haiti face in its recovery efforts compared to Jamaica and Cuba, given its pre-existing conditions?

Rebuilding After Hurricane Melissa: Haiti, Jamaica, and Cuba Assess the Damage and Begin Recovery Efforts

Initial Impact and Damage Assessments (October 2025)

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 3 storm at its peak, swept across the Caribbean in late October 2025, leaving a trail of devastation in Haiti, Jamaica, and Cuba. Initial reports indicate widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and critically important disruption to essential services. Damage assessment teams are currently on the ground, but a full picture of the impact is still emerging.

Here’s a breakdown of the immediate effects in each nation:

* Haiti: Already grappling with political instability and economic hardship, Haiti bore the brunt of Melissa. Coastal communities experienced catastrophic storm surges, and inland areas suffered from landslides triggered by torrential rainfall. Preliminary estimates suggest tens of thousands displaced, with critical infrastructure – including hospitals and schools – severely damaged. The agricultural sector, vital to Haiti’s economy, has been decimated.

* Jamaica: While better prepared than Haiti,Jamaica experienced significant damage to its tourism infrastructure,notably along the north coast. Power outages were widespread, and roads were blocked by debris. The agricultural sector also suffered losses, with banana and coffee plantations heavily impacted.

* Cuba: Cuba’s robust civil defense system helped mitigate some of the storm’s impact, but the western provinces experienced significant flooding and wind damage. The sugar cane harvest, a key component of the Cuban economy, is expected to be significantly reduced. Power infrastructure sustained considerable damage, impacting both residential and industrial areas.

Key Areas of Damage & Urgent Needs

The immediate aftermath of Hurricane Melissa highlights several critical areas requiring urgent attention:

* Infrastructure: Roads, bridges, and power grids have been severely compromised across all three nations. Restoring transportation networks is paramount for delivering aid and facilitating recovery.

* Housing: Thousands of homes have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable, leaving families exposed to the elements. Emergency shelter is a top priority.

* Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics are overwhelmed with casualties and facing shortages of medical supplies. Access to clean water and sanitation is crucial to prevent the spread of disease.

* Food Security: The destruction of crops and disruption to supply chains have created a looming food crisis. Emergency food aid is urgently needed.

* Water & Sanitation: Contaminated water sources pose a significant health risk. Restoring access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities is vital.

Recovery Efforts: A Nation-by-Nation overview

Haiti: A Complex Recovery Landscape

Haiti’s recovery will be particularly challenging given its existing vulnerabilities. International aid organizations,including the Red Cross and doctors Without Borders,are on the ground providing emergency assistance.

* Focus Areas:

1. Emergency shelter and food distribution.
2. Medical assistance and disease prevention.
3. Debris removal and road clearing.
4. Long-term reconstruction of infrastructure.

* Challenges: Political instability, logistical difficulties, and security concerns are hindering aid delivery. Corruption remains a significant obstacle to effective resource allocation.

* Financial Aid: The United Nations has launched an appeal for $200 million in emergency funding for Haiti.

Jamaica: Rebuilding Tourism and Agriculture

Jamaica’s recovery efforts are focused on restoring its tourism sector and supporting its agricultural communities.

* focus Areas:

1. Repairing damaged hotels and resorts.
2. Providing financial assistance to farmers.
3. Restoring power and water supplies.
4. Strengthening infrastructure resilience.

* Government Initiatives: The Jamaican government has announced a tax relief package for businesses affected by the hurricane.

* Tourism Recovery: Marketing campaigns are underway to reassure tourists that Jamaica is safe and open for business.

Cuba: Leveraging civil Defense Expertise

Cuba’s well-established civil defense system is proving invaluable in coordinating recovery efforts.

* Focus Areas:

1. Repairing damaged power infrastructure.
2. Restoring agricultural production.
3. Providing housing assistance to affected families.
4. strengthening coastal defenses.

* Community Involvement: Local committees are playing a key role in distributing aid and coordinating cleanup efforts.

* Long-Term Planning: Cuba is prioritizing investments in renewable energy and climate-resilient infrastructure.

The role of International Aid & NGOs

International aid organizations are playing a critical role in supporting recovery efforts across all three nations. Key organizations involved include:

* United Nations: Coordinating aid efforts and providing logistical support.

* Red Cross/Red Crescent: providing emergency shelter, food, and medical assistance.

* **Doctors Without