Source: BBC
Jamaica is reeling after Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, caused widespread flooding, power outages, and severe damage across the island. Communication networks have been crippled, leaving authorities and relief agencies struggling to assess the full scale of the disaster.
The Storm Hits
Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Tuesday near New Hope in southwestern St Elizabeth Parish with sustained winds of 185 mph (≈295 km/h). Torrential rains of up to 100 cm (≈40 inches) were reported in some areas, accompanied by a devastating storm surge along the south coast. Residents described roads and homes submerged, while rescue efforts are hampered by blocked routes and downed power lines.
Source: The Hill
Major Impacts
Flooding and Landslides: Entire communities in St Elizabeth Parish are underwater. Critical roads and public buildings are inaccessible.
Power and Communications: Over 500,000 residents are without electricity, and phone networks are mostly offline.
Healthcare Disruption: Four major hospitals sustained heavy damage; one hospital’s roof collapsed, forcing patient evacuations.
Human Toll: At least three deaths reported, with up to 1.5 million people affected across Jamaica.
Economic Losses: Tourism, agriculture, and fisheries face serious disruption, with long-term implications for livelihoods.
Why It’s So Serious
Experts say Melissa is the strongest hurricane to strike Jamaica in recorded history. Its slow movement prolonged exposure to extreme winds and rainfall, increasing destruction. Officials warn that existing infrastructure was ill-prepared for a storm of this magnitude, with heavy damage to roads, electricity grids, hospitals, and housing.
Response and Relief
Authorities are opening emergency shelters and mobilizing food, water, and medical aid. However, continued flooding and disrupted communications are slowing relief operations. Emergency management teams emphasize the urgent need for resilient rebuilding and better preparedness for future storms.
Source: CNN
Lessons and Context
While Jamaica’s situation is extreme, similar lessons apply globally:
Preparedness: Early warning systems and evacuations are crucial to save lives.
Infrastructure Resilience: Hospitals, schools, and roads need climate-proofing.
Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures contribute to stronger, more destructive hurricanes.
Recovery Planning: Long-term recovery must integrate disaster risk reduction to protect communities.