St James, Jamaica — The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left a stark trail of destruction along the Elegant Corridor, stretching from the western airport to Iberostar in the east. Numerous properties, including the upscale Iberostar and Jewel Grande resorts, have suffered significant roof damage. Rehabilitation efforts are currently underway at Catalonia, another affected property. The shopping village opposite Catalonia has also experienced substantial damage, with several shops impacted by the storm. The health care facility, Hospiten, saw sections of its roof torn off during the tempest. While flooding was reported in some areas, the waters have since receded, leaving behind muddy patches along the roadway. The storm also brought down trees and power lines, disrupting traffic and hindering daily commuters. Many of the stately palm trees that once lined the road have been broken, bent, or stripped of their leaves, rendering them unrecognizable. Despite the visible devastation, the full extent of the damage to Jamaica’s primary tourism belt remains uncertain, as assessments are still ongoing to determine the overall impact.