Hurricane Melissa has caused significant devastation in the northern Caribbean region, leading to a confirmed death toll of 49 as reported on Thursday. The storm, which bypassed Bermuda in the North Atlantic, resulted in destructive impacts across several countries in the area.
Haiti, although not directly hit by the hurricane, endured heavy rainfall for several days, resulting in at least 30 fatalities and 20 individuals reported missing. In the town of Petit-Goave in southern Haiti, 23 people, including 10 children, lost their lives due to a river overflowing. The storm caused damage to roads, houses, and agricultural lands in the region.
Jamaica also suffered significant casualties, with at least 19 confirmed deaths and ongoing search and rescue operations. The storm left a trail of destruction, leaving many without power, destroying roofs, and causing widespread debris in fields. The Jamaican military has mobilized reserve personnel to assist with relief efforts and rescue missions.
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in southwestern Jamaica as a powerful Category 5 hurricane, marking the strongest storm to hit the country directly and the first major hurricane since 1988. With wind speeds exceeding the threshold for the strongest hurricane classification, forecasters noted it as the second-strongest Atlantic hurricane in recorded history in terms of wind speed upon landfall.
Estimates suggest that the economic losses and damages in the western Caribbean region could range between $67 and $72 billion. Although Melissa also impacted eastern Cuba, where a significant evacuation took place, no fatalities were reported as of Thursday despite substantial property and crop damage.
As of 11 p.m. local time, Hurricane Melissa was classified as a Category 2 storm, positioned west of Bermuda in the North Atlantic, with maximum sustained winds of 161 km/h. Bermuda residents, while prepared, were expected to experience minimal direct impact from the storm. Precautionary measures, including the closure of causeways and suspension of school and ferry services, were implemented as a safety measure.
In the Bahamas, where Melissa passed through on Wednesday night, storm warnings were lifted, yet authorities have not issued an “all clear.” Evacuated individuals are awaiting official clearance to return home, with authorities expected to make a decision on the matter by Saturday.