Hurricane Melissa has unleashed devastation across the Caribbean, claiming at least 30 lives in Haiti and disrupting over 1.5 million people in Jamaica, according to a United Nations spokesperson on Tuesday. The Category 4 storm brought torrential rains and winds exceeding 130 mph, triggering landslides, flooding, and widespread infrastructure damage.
Haiti's Vulnerability Exposed
Haiti, still recovering from political instability and previous natural disasters, bore the brunt of Melissa's fury. Entire neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince were submerged, while rural communities faced severed road connections. Emergency teams struggle to reach isolated areas, raising concerns about rising casualties and disease outbreaks.
Jamaica's Mass Evacuations
In Jamaica, authorities evacuated coastal regions ahead of the storm, but flooding in Kingston disrupted power and water supplies for millions. Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the hurricane as "one of the most severe tests in recent memory," urging international aid.
Regional Response Intensifies
The UN has activated emergency protocols, coordinating with regional bodies like CARICOM to deliver food, medical supplies, and temporary shelters. Meteorologists warn that climate change is amplifying the frequency and intensity of Caribbean storms, underscoring the need for resilient infrastructure.
