St James, Jamaica, has embarked on an extensive clean-up operation following the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. Since the early hours of Wednesday, firefighters have been actively working to clear debris and restore access to several key roads within the city. Concurrently, teams from the St James Municipal Corporation have been mobilizing across various neighborhoods to facilitate recovery efforts. In Montego Bay, limited vehicular traffic has resumed as residents begin their personal clean-up activities. However, areas such as Catherine Hall and Westgreen have faced severe flooding due to the swollen Pye River, leaving homes filled with mud and debris. Coastal communities like Mango Walk have been particularly hard-hit, with numerous houses losing their roofs. The aftermath has also seen downed trees, damaged solar panels, and other debris, prompting a large-scale clean-up initiative now underway in the western city.
标签： Jamaica
牙买加
-
‘Poor’ PSG retain Ligue 1 lead despite stalemate and Doue injury
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) managed to retain their position at the top of Ligue 1 on Wednesday, despite a 1-1 draw against Lorient and a concerning injury to star forward Desire Doue. The 20-year-old, who recently returned to full fitness after a September injury, suffered a right thigh issue during the match, casting doubt on his availability for PSG’s upcoming Champions League clash with Bayern Munich on November 4. Doue, who scored twice in PSG’s recent 7-2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, was seen leaving the stadium on crutches, avoiding putting weight on his injured leg. PSG coach Luis Enrique expressed concern, stating, ‘It’s always bad news when there are injuries. It’s a strange injury; I don’t know exactly his condition. I hope it’s not serious.’ Despite the setback, PSG remained atop the league table after Marseille’s 2-2 draw with Angers and Monaco’s 5-3 win over Nantes. Other results included Lens slipping to sixth after a 2-0 loss to Metz, Nice defeating Lille 2-0, and Strasbourg climbing to fourth with a 3-0 victory over Auxerre.
-
$24-b payout
Jamaica is poised to receive a $150 million payout from its catastrophe bond, marking a historic activation of this financial safety net as the nation grapples with the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Melissa. Disaster modeller Chuck Watson of Enki Research estimates the storm’s damage between $5 billion and $16 billion, likening it to the catastrophic Hurricane Gilbert of 1988, which caused $7 billion in losses. Watson described Melissa as a worst-case scenario for the island, potentially doubling Gilbert’s impact.
-
Santa Cruz resident says hometown is ‘unrecognisable’
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has left the town of Santa Cruz in a state of utter devastation, with one resident describing the destruction as ‘unimaginable.’ Yushaine Morgan, a local attorney and lifelong resident, shared his heart-wrenching experience with Observer Online, emphasizing the profound impact of the storm on his community. Morgan, who was seen wearing an ‘I love Santa Cruz’ shirt, explained that the garment symbolized his enduring hope and resilience in the face of catastrophe. ‘What we endured last night and yesterday surpassed anything we could have imagined, no matter how dire our predictions,’ Morgan recounted. He painted a grim picture of the town’s current state, noting that entire sections are now unrecognizable. ‘Roads have been obliterated, countless homes and businesses destroyed, roofs torn off, and many have lost vehicles and livestock,’ he added. Despite the overwhelming devastation, Morgan expressed his unwavering commitment to his hometown, stating, ‘I have no desire of ever vacating.’ The community now faces the daunting task of rebuilding, with Morgan admitting uncertainty about where to begin the recovery process.
-
Melissa is the most powerful hurricane to make landfall in 90 years—AFP
Hurricane Melissa has etched its name in meteorological history by matching the intensity of the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, the most powerful storm ever to make landfall. According to an analysis of data from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Melissa struck Jamaica on Tuesday with wind speeds nearing 300 kilometers per hour (185 mph) and an atmospheric pressure of 892 millibars, equalling the record set nearly a century ago. The Labor Day Hurricane devastated the Florida Keys in 1935 with similar ferocity, leaving a lasting mark on hurricane records. Melissa’s arrival underscores the growing intensity of tropical storms, a trend scientists attribute to climate change. While other storms, such as Typhoon Goni (2020) and Hurricane Patricia (2015), have recorded stronger winds or lower pressures, none have matched Melissa’s intensity at the moment of landfall. Melissa, the fifth Category 5 storm of 2025, surpassed Typhoon Ragasa, which struck East Asia earlier in the year, in both wind speed and pressure. After battering Jamaica, Melissa was downgraded to Category 3 as it moved toward Cuba. This event highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events globally, driven by rising global temperatures.
-
More than 500,000 JPS customers lose power
Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, wreaked havoc across Jamaica on Tuesday, leaving more than 70% of Jamaica Public Service (JPS) customers—over 500,000 households—without electricity by 3:00 pm. The hurricane made landfall at noon with unprecedented wind speeds exceeding 180 miles per hour, causing significant damage to the island’s transmission and distribution networks. JPS President and CEO Hugh Grant confirmed that central and western parishes were particularly hard-hit, with sections of the electrical grid requiring a complete rebuild. Despite efforts to prevent a total shutdown, the extent of the damage has made recovery a daunting task. JPS has mobilized its line workers, along with local and international contractors, to begin restoration efforts as soon as conditions permit. In less affected areas, the company plans to seek a partial all-clear from authorities to initiate assessments and repairs concurrently. Grant emphasized the complexity of power outages, explaining that damage in one area can disrupt supply in others, and urged customers to remain patient. JPS also issued a safety warning, advising residents to avoid downed power lines and poles, which may still be energized. The Jamaica Observer reported an incident involving an energized wire on Rosseau Road in St. Andrew, which remained unattended for hours, sparking frustration among locals. As Jamaica begins its recovery, JPS remains committed to restoring power while prioritizing the safety of its teams and the public.
-
Tufton says efforts underway to relocate patients from Black River Hospital
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on St Elizabeth, Jamaica, the Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, has announced urgent measures to relocate patients from the severely damaged Black River Hospital. The facility has been rendered inaccessible due to the storm’s destruction, prompting immediate action to ensure the safety and care of approximately 71 patients currently housed there.
-
Caricom countries vote in favour of resolution to end US trade embargo against Cuba
The United Nations General Assembly has once again adopted a resolution urging the United States to end its long-standing economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba. This marks the 33rd consecutive year the UN has passed such a measure, with 165 member states voting in favor, seven opposing, and 12 abstaining. The resolution, titled ‘Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,’ saw strong support from all 14 Caribbean Community (Caricom) countries, reflecting widespread international disapproval of the embargo. Notably, the US, Israel, Argentina, Hungary, Paraguay, North Macedonia, and Ukraine voted against the resolution, while countries like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Poland chose to abstain. US Ambassador Jeff Bartos defended the embargo, stating that it sends a clear message to the Cuban regime. The resolution also criticized US legislation such as the Helms-Burton Act of 1996, which Cuba and other nations argue violates international law. The General Assembly highlighted the contrasting approaches of former President Barack Obama, who eased some embargo measures, and the Trump administration, which reinforced them. The US embargo, first imposed in 1958, has been a contentious issue for decades, with the UN consistently advocating for its end since 1992. The General Assembly has decided to include the embargo on the agenda for next year’s session, ensuring the issue remains a focal point of international discourse.
-
Hezron’s Holding On climbing
Reggae artist Hezron Clarke has unveiled his latest single, ‘Holding On,’ a track dedicated to spreading positivity and inspiring resilience. Originally part of his 2022 album *M.O.A.M (Man On A Mission)*, the song was officially released as a standalone single on September 26. The track features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Leroy Romans on bass guitar, synthesizer, keyboards, and flute; Rohan Dwyer on programmed drums and guitar; and Limey Murray on backing vocals. Produced by Tad Dawkins Jr of Tad’s Records, the collaboration showcases a seamless musical chemistry, resulting in a high-quality production. Clarke explained that the song draws inspiration from life’s struggles, faith, and the determination to persevere through adversity. Since its release, ‘Holding On’ has resonated deeply with fans worldwide, earning widespread acclaim for its uplifting message. Clarke emphasized that music should not only entertain but also inspire, and this track serves as a reminder to hold onto purpose, dreams, and humanity during challenging times. The artist recently concluded a successful three-month tour across Canada, performing 15 shows at festivals and cultural events. The tour, which began in Victoria, British Columbia, and ended in Toronto, was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from audiences. Clarke described the experience as unforgettable, highlighting the deep appreciation Canadians have for authentic reggae music. Looking ahead, he plans to release the visuals for ‘Holding On’ and is already working on his next album, a high-energy roots reggae project that stays true to his signature style. Clarke also aims to expand his international performances and undertake special projects in Jamaica, continuing to champion the message of love and resilience through his music.
-
‘It’s so sad’: St Elizabeth businessman says Hurricane Melissa worst he has seen
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — A long-time resident and business operator in Santa Cruz, St Elizabeth, has described Hurricane Melissa as the most severe storm he has encountered during his nearly two decades on the island. Mr Lee, who runs a local supermarket, shared his harrowing experience with Observer Online, recounting the destruction caused by the hurricane. While his property suffered minimal damage, other areas were not as fortunate, experiencing significant losses. ‘I’ve been in Jamaica for almost 20 years, and that was the first hurricane I never expected. It’s the worst. It’s so sad,’ Mr Lee lamented. Despite the challenges, he ensured the safety of his staff and remains hopeful for recovery. ‘We only got some little water and did some cleaning, but I see other places got a lot of losses. I called my staff, ensured everyone is safe, but I think we will be getting better,’ he added. The hurricane has left a trail of devastation, highlighting the resilience of the local community as they begin the arduous process of rebuilding.