Hold on tight! Hurricane Melissa, packing record-shattering 185 mph winds, carved a path of destruction across the northern Caribbean this week. From storm-swept Jamaica to flood-hit Haiti, nearly 30 lives have been lost and countless more are reeling from the devastation. 🌪️
In Jamaica, Melissa made history as the strongest hurricane to directly strike the island. With winds that could rival any action movie explosion, it tore through communities, leaving 77% of the island without power and triggering damage estimates of $22 billion. Hospitals in St. Elizabeth scrambled to care for patients by flashlight, while locals described the roar 'like missiles blowing through the glass.'
Meanwhile, Haiti—already grappling with a prolonged gang conflict and humanitarian crisis—was drenched by days of relentless rain. Floodwaters claimed at least 25 lives in Petit-Goâve, swept through makeshift camps, and pushed 12,000 people into emergency shelters. Displaced residents warned that another blow from Melissa could be catastrophic. 💔
As Melissa weakens to Category 1, its legacy is far from over. The Bahamas launched one of its largest evacuations, airlifting nearly 1,500 people, while Turks and Caicos and Bermuda brace for more. AccuWeather calls it the Caribbean’s third-most intense and slowest-moving hurricane on record—making the cleanup and recovery a long haul. 🌊
What’s next? Communities are shifting into recovery mode, emergency shelters remain open, and international aid is mobilizing. The road ahead will be tough, but stories of local solidarity and resilience shine a light on hope. For youth entrepreneurs, investors, and travelers eyeing the Caribbean’s rebound, now is the moment to tune in, support relief efforts, and stay weather-aware. 💪
Reference(s):
Death toll mounts to nearly 30 as Hurricane Melissa batters Caribbean
cgtn.com
