Hurricane Melissa Tears Through the Caribbean
Hurricane Melissa barreled through the Caribbean this week, leaving destruction in its wake. After a record-breaking Category 5 landfall in Jamaica with winds reaching 185 mph (298 kph), the storm was downgraded to Category 3 as it struck Cuba, and now persists as a dangerous Category 2 hurricane threatening the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos.
Cuba Faces Widespread Damage
Melissa made landfall near Guama, a mountainous area west of Santiago de Cuba, isolating at least 241 communities and cutting communications for up to 140,000 residents.
Authorities reported:
- Over 735,000 people evacuated across eastern Cuba
- Extensive flooding from Santiago to Guantanamo
- Hundreds of homes lost roofs due to powerful winds
- Rivers overflowing, cutting off rural communities
- Threats to crops ahead of the winter growing season
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel confirmed that the nation had suffered extensive damage. Residents of Santiago cautiously stepped outside Wednesday to survey debris-strewn streets, fallen trees, and downed power lines.
Jamaica Surveys Storm Aftermath
Jamaica is still reeling from Melissa’s unprecedented Category 5 strike, considered the strongest storm to hit the island directly. Recovery efforts are ongoing as officials assess infrastructure damage and begin restoring power and essential services.
Bahamas on High Alert
Even as Melissa weakened, the Bahamas is preparing for dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, and potential storm surge. Disaster risk management minister Leon Lundy reported:
- Around 1,485 people evacuated from vulnerable south-eastern islands
- Flights suspended amid the storm’s approach
- The archipelago faces one of its largest pre-landfall evacuation operations in recent history
Minister Lundy warned:
“Even a weakened hurricane retains the capacity to bring serious devastation. The time for movement has ended.”
Residents remaining in their homes have been urged to shelter in place and prepare for heavy impacts.
Key Takeaways
- Hurricane Melissa: From Category 5 in Jamaica → Category 3 in Cuba → Category 2 approaching the Bahamas
- Evacuations: 735,000 in Cuba; 1,485 in the Bahamas
- Impacts: Flooding, power outages, destroyed homes, threatened crops
- Action: Residents urged to stay indoors as storm moves north
Melissa continues to move northward, and authorities across the Caribbean are on high alert. Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor official updates, secure emergency supplies, and adhere to evacuation orders.
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