Hurricane Melissa, an exceptionally powerful Category 5 storm, wreaked havoc on Jamaica this Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. With wind speeds reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour, the hurricane caused severe damage to infrastructure, power grids, and homes. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate as large parts of the island were left without electricity and communication. Authorities reported widespread flooding in coastal areas due to storm surges and dangerously high sea levels. Local media also indicated that hospitals and emergency shelters sustained significant damage, prompting rescue services to declare a humanitarian crisis. Although Melissa has since weakened to a Category 4 hurricane, it remains extremely dangerous and is now moving toward Cuba and the Bahamas, where emergency plans have already been activated. The Caribbean Community (Caricom) expressed deep concern over the situation in Jamaica and emphasized its readiness to coordinate relief efforts. The organization warned that the impact of Melissa could be long-lasting and called for international support for recovery and rebuilding. Meteorological experts have identified Melissa as one of the most severe hurricanes to hit the Caribbean this century, with the full extent of the damage in Jamaica expected to become clearer in the coming days.
Orkaan Melissa richt verwoesting aan op Jamaica; Caricom spreekt bezorgdheid uit
