Payam Javan: The death toll from Hurricane Melissa rose to 49 on Thursday as the storm continued its destructive path across the northern Caribbean and into the North Atlantic, officials confirmed. Haiti suffered the heaviest losses, reporting at least 30 fatalities and 20 missing after days of relentless rain, even though the country was not directly hit. In the southern town of Petit-Goâve, a river overflowed and killed 23 people, including 10 children, while flooding and landslides damaged roads, homes, and farmlands.
Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday as a Category 5 hurricane—the strongest storm ever recorded to strike the island—bringing catastrophic winds and torrential rain. At least 19 people were confirmed dead as authorities launched nationwide rescue efforts and called up military reserves. More than 70 percent of Jamaica remained without power by Thursday, with hundreds of roads blocked by debris and downed lines. Satellite imagery revealed widespread devastation, especially in western regions including Montego Bay.
In Cuba, where Melissa struck as a Category 3 storm, 735,000 residents were evacuated before impact, preventing reported fatalities despite significant structural damage. Over 240 communities in eastern provinces were left isolated without communication, affecting an estimated 140,000 people. The Bahamas lifted storm warnings on Thursday but maintained travel restrictions while assessing conditions for evacuees’ return. Meanwhile, Bermuda prepared for strong winds as the hurricane, now downgraded to Category 2, passed west of the island.
Forecasters estimate economic losses from Melissa at between $48 billion and $52 billion, making it one of the most destructive storms in Caribbean history. Scientists say warmer ocean waters are fueling faster-intensifying hurricanes, a growing concern for small island nations. Regional leaders renewed calls for wealthy nations to increase climate financing and disaster relief. The United States has pledged immediate humanitarian aid to Jamaica and Cuba, as international rescue teams mobilize to support recovery efforts.
