Hurricane Melissa Causes Destruction in the Caribbean

As of October 29, 2025, Hurricane Melissa has resulted in the deaths of dozens and caused significant destruction in Jamaica, Haiti, and now Cuba.

This powerful Category 5 storm made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday, packing winds of 185 mph, making it one of the most intense hurricanes recorded in the Atlantic. Following the storm, over 25,000 residents were evacuated in Jamaica as landslides blocked major roads in Santa Cruz, ripping roofs off homes in the process.

Reports indicate Melissa has claimed approximately 36 lives so far. Interestingly, local authorities in Cuba have yet to report any fatalities. However, assessing the actual death toll from hurricanes like Melissa is quite challenging. Infrastructure issues—like flooded roads and downed power lines—often hinder rescue efforts, isolating some communities entirely. Additionally, communication failures, including internet or phone outages, can delay information dissemination, particularly in remote areas.

On Wednesday, Jamaica’s Education Minister Dana Morris-Dixon indicated that about 77% of the island was without electricity, and a “total communications blackout” had been reported. About 70 out of 700 water systems in Jamaica were also damaged, leaving many without access to clean drinking water. The power company is working on restoration, while police are clearing fallen trees from roads.

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management in Jamaica has confirmed that at least four deaths occurred during the storm preparations, with three additional deaths reported afterward, making a total of seven confirmed deaths.

In Haiti, tragedy struck in the coastal town of Petit Goave where at least 25 people died as the La Digue river overflowed and destroyed numerous homes. Reports indicated that recovery efforts were ongoing, with a few individuals still trapped under debris.

As it approached Cuba, Melissa weakened to a Category 3 storm, with winds reaching 190 mph. Even so, such storms can cause severe damage—homes can be destroyed, trees uprooted, and extended power outages are common. Cuban authorities reported extensive damage, with numerous homes and roads affected, while around 735,000 people remained in evacuation centers.

One resident, Reynaldo Caron, described the night as “hell,” echoing the sentiments of many others facing the storm’s fury.

The ongoing economic crisis in Cuba, marked by chronic power outages, will likely worsen due to the hurricane’s impact. President Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged this in a televised address, emphasizing the extensive recovery work that would be required and urging the public not to underestimate the storm’s severity.

While Hurricane Melissa has lost some power, it still poses a threat as it tracks northeast between Cuba and the Bahamas. Preparations in the Bahamas continue, with evacuations underway and flights suspended. The U.S. has dispatched regional disaster response teams and activated urban search and rescue units. Additionally, the UK committed £2.5 million in humanitarian aid.

Deaths Report Summary