Hurricane Melissa, a Category Five storm, has unleashed its fury on Jamaica, causing widespread devastation. The hurricane made landfall on the island’s southwest coast earlier today, bringing with it ferocious winds of 185 miles per hour and torrential rainfall estimated at 20 to 30 inches. The National Hurricane Center has warned of storm surges reaching 9 to 13 feet along the southern coastline, triggering flash floods and landslides. While the storm’s slow approach provided residents with additional preparation time, authorities are now urging everyone to remain in secure shelters. Among those seeking safety are dozens of Belizean students studying in Jamaica, many of whom have relocated to the residence of Belize’s Honorary Consul. The Jamaican government has issued an update on its relief strategies, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response. Dezmond Mckenzie, Minister of Local Government & Community Development, highlighted the challenges in delivering aid, stating that all airports remain closed and relief supplies must follow a documented, systematic process to ensure transparency and efficiency. A dedicated website has been established to streamline the coordination of international assistance.
标签： Belize
伯利兹
-
Jamaican Government Explains Rescue Operations Amid Cat 5 Hurricane
Jamaica is grappling with unprecedented devastation as Hurricane Melissa, the first Category 5 hurricane to directly hit the island, leaves a trail of destruction in its wake. The storm has already claimed at least seven lives across the region, with three fatalities in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic. Hundreds of thousands are without power, and the Red Cross estimates that up to 1.5 million people could be affected. The Jamaican government has initiated rescue operations, but the extreme weather conditions have severely hampered efforts. Evan Thompson, Principal Director of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, highlighted the challenges faced by emergency responders, noting that helicopters and coastguards cannot operate in such severe weather. Despite these obstacles, rescue teams managed to evacuate an elderly couple to safety and conducted search and rescue missions in Manderville. Dezmond Mckenzie, Minister of Local Government & Community Development, emphasized the government’s proactive planning, drawing lessons from past hurricanes like Beryl and Gilbert. He commended the team working tirelessly in the command center, gathering critical data to coordinate relief efforts. As the storm continues to wreak havoc, Jamaica remains on high alert, with rescue operations poised to intensify once conditions improve.
-
PAHO on High Alert as Melissa Threatens Regional Health Systems
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has escalated its emergency response efforts as Storm Melissa poses a significant threat to health systems across the Caribbean and Central America. Operating from its Washington-based command center, PAHO is coordinating with national health ministries, United Nations agencies, and regional disaster response units to ensure the continuity of essential health services. Emergency medical supplies have been pre-positioned in Haiti, while Panama has stockpiled additional resources. Jamaica has activated its national emergency operations center, and Cuba and the Dominican Republic are preparing for the storm’s impact. Key concerns include potential power and water outages in hospitals, the risk of disease outbreaks in overcrowded shelters, and the escalating mental health needs of displaced populations. PAHO emphasizes that restoring access to safe water and sanitation will be critical in preventing health crises and maintaining care delivery. The organization remains vigilant, providing ongoing support and monitoring as Melissa continues its path through the region.
-
Ryan Hyde Dies After Cotton Tree Shooting; Family Awaits Answers
The quiet village of Cotton Tree was thrust into turmoil last Friday night when a single gunshot echoed through the community, striking 32-year-old Ryan Hyde in the head. Despite being rushed first to the Western Regional Hospital and then transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for specialized care, Hyde succumbed to his injuries on Monday night, leaving his family shattered and searching for answers. Hyde’s sister, Christie Bonell, expressed the family’s anguish, recounting how they had hoped for his recovery but were devastated by his sudden passing. The tragedy is compounded by the family’s history of loss, with several relatives previously killed in gang-related violence. Bonell believes her brother was targeted due to the stigma associated with their last name, Hyde, which she says has been unfairly linked to crime and violence. Amid their grief, the family is left to console Hyde’s wife and two young sons, who now face life without their father. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the family awaits the results of the post-mortem to proceed with funeral arrangements. The community mourns the loss of a man described as jovial, loving, and deeply committed to his family.
-
Four Men Arraigned, Woman’s Case Delayed in High Court
In a significant legal development, four men were arraigned in the High Court before Justice Nigel Pilgrim on October 28, 2025, while the case of a woman accused of a serious sex offense was adjourned. The proceedings unfolded as follows: Ulide Allen and Marquis Conorquie were jointly indicted for the murder of Stanley Jerome Moore and the attempted murder of Joshua Gillett, incidents that occurred in Belize City in June 2024. Both pleaded not guilty and are scheduled to return to court on December 8. Andre Arthurs faces a murder charge for the killing of Mark Usher Jr. in March 2025. Arthurs, who appeared without legal representation, pleaded not guilty and was given until December 8 to organize his legal documents. His next court date is set for December 12. Mark Stevens, accused of attempting to murder Juan Carlos Reyes Pineda in June, was noted by Justice Pilgrim to have complications in his case. Stevens will be assigned legal counsel and is due back in court on November 10. Meanwhile, Shania Welch of Gales Point Manatee, accused of a serious sex offense involving a minor, had her arraignment delayed. Represented by attorney Nazira Myles-Espat, Welch will return to court on November 14. These cases highlight the ongoing legal challenges and the complexities of the judicial process in handling serious criminal offenses.
-
Belize Signs Regional Pact to Tackle Domestic Violence
In a significant move to address the escalating issue of domestic violence, Belize has signed the Regional Pact on Legislative and Policy Priorities for Domestic Violence. This landmark agreement was finalized during a two-day summit in Barbados, where senior officials from across the Caribbean convened to strategize on combating this pervasive problem. The pact aims to enhance legislative frameworks and policy measures to better protect victims, particularly women and children, who are disproportionately affected by domestic abuse. Belize is also undertaking a comprehensive review of its Domestic Violence Act to bolster domestic protections. However, the government faces criticism for its perceived inadequacies in addressing the crisis. Prime Minister John Briceño addressed concerns raised by the Special Envoy for Women and Children, who publicly criticized the government’s efforts. Briceño acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of sensitizing law enforcement and strengthening institutional responses to ensure victims receive the support they need. Despite these efforts, questions linger about the effectiveness of current measures and the government’s commitment to eradicating domestic violence.
-
Five-year Milestone Sparks Talk of Cabinet Shake-up
As the Briceño administration in Belize approaches its five-year anniversary in November 2025, speculation about a potential Cabinet reshuffle has intensified. Prime Minister John Briceño, when questioned on Monday, neither confirmed nor denied the possibility, leaving room for conjecture. ‘You always contemplate that at all times,’ Briceño remarked, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in governance. He highlighted the ongoing implementation of PLAN BELIZE 2.0, a strategic initiative aimed at national development. While Briceño acknowledged the possibility of changes, he stopped short of providing concrete details, stating, ‘Whether we’re going to have a reshuffle or not, that’s left to be seen.’ The administration’s focus remains on executing its policies effectively, but the milestone has sparked discussions about potential adjustments to the Cabinet lineup. This development comes amid growing public interest in the government’s performance and future direction.
-
Vicks: How a Father’s Love Became a Cultural Staple
For generations, Vicks VapoRub has been a household staple, a trusted remedy for colds and respiratory ailments. Its origins trace back to 1894, when pharmacist Lunsford Richardson created a blend of aromatic oils and chemicals to ease his son’s breathing during a severe respiratory infection. This humble homemade remedy evolved into the iconic blue jar we know today. During the 1918 influenza pandemic, Vicks gained widespread popularity, cementing its place in homes worldwide. In Belize, Vicks transcends its medicinal purpose, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Whether rubbed on the chest, under the nose, or even on the soles of the feet, Belizeans have embraced Vicks as a versatile and essential remedy. Its influence extends to local culture, referenced in music and comedy as a cure-all. Pharmacist Raul Acevedo explains that Vicks contains camphor, eucalyptus, and menthol, ingredients derived from natural sources like the eucalyptus plant and peppermint tree. Naturopathic Doctor Cornelio Marfield praises the blend for its analgesic and antiviral properties, calling its creator brilliant. Belizeans have developed unique applications for Vicks, from soothing earaches to relieving headaches. Despite recent price increases, its popularity remains unwavering. Vicks is more than a product; it’s a testament to a father’s love and a cultural cornerstone in Belize.
-
Hydro Belize Deal Raises Hopes for Public Stake in Energy Future
The Briceño administration has made a landmark move by investing $256 million to acquire full control of Fortis Belize Limited, which will soon be rebranded as Hydro Belize. This acquisition includes three major dams and a significant stake in Belize Electricity Limited (B.E.L.). The deal has sparked widespread interest, particularly regarding the potential for public investment in this energy giant. Prime Minister John Briceño emphasized that the initiative is designed to benefit Belizean citizens, with plans to allow thousands of Belizeans to invest in the company. The government aims to allocate a portion of the shares to the public, potentially setting aside up to 10% for individual investors. Additionally, the administration is exploring ways to involve Social Security in the investment, ensuring solid returns for the national fund. The Prime Minister also assured transparency, stating that the beneficial owners of Hydro Belize Limited will be publicly accessible through the registry. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance public participation in key national assets, including the upcoming development of the Port of Belize.
-
Soaring Power Costs Strain Belizeans as CFE Supply Falters
Belize is grappling with a severe energy crisis as soaring electricity costs from Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) place immense strain on its citizens. Prime Minister John Briceño revealed this week that during peak hours, Belizeans are paying up to one U.S. dollar per kilowatt, a rate that is significantly higher than global standards. This alarming situation has prompted the government to explore alternative solutions, including a potential connection to the Central American power grid.